Dynamics of Red Light Crashes

Car accidents generally occur due to reckless driving by other motorists. Failure to follow traffic rules and regulations puts everyone at risk, and one of the most dangerous driving behaviors is running red lights. In fact, according to statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, red-light running is responsible for almost 1,200 deaths a year and more than 105,000 injuries. If you have been injured in a crash, a Norfolk personal injury lawyer can help.

Red Light Laws

In Virginia, like in all states in the U.S., the law requires drivers to come to a complete stop when they encounter a steady red light. The driver will remain stopped until the red light turns to a constant green light. As long as there’s no sign specifically restricting it, Virginia law permits drivers to turn right after stopping at a red light. However, drivers need to use caution and follow the standard right-of-way rules when making a turn.

How often have you approached an intersection when the light was yellow and stepped on the gas to catch it before it changed to red? According to multiple surveys, roughly half of all drivers admit to doing this, and one in four does so regularly. Running a yellow light or going through as it turns red is often just as dangerous and likely to result in a car accident. Other important facts about red-light running include:

• It is the most common type of car accident in urban areas.
• Roughly 20 percent of all crashes involve running red lights or disregarding other traffic signals.
• Speeding to get through a light tends to increase the force of impact, causing more severe injuries.
• In addition to endangering other motorists, running red lights also puts bicyclists and pedestrians at risk.

Preventing Intersection Accidents

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) warns that red-light running is a common problem in larger metropolitan areas. Often resulting in dangerous T-bone and side-impact collisions, it is a leading cause of traffic deaths and disabling injuries. To help reduce your risk of being involved in this type of crash, follow these tips:

• Avoid the temptation to speed up if you see a light changing from green to yellow. If it is already on yellow, slow to a stop.
• Be wary of other drivers when crossing intersections. Even if you have the light, be alert for drivers who may not be paying attention or who may disregard their signal.
• Avoid getting impatient waiting for a light to change from red to green. Give pedestrians plenty of time to cross and watch for drivers from other directions racing to get through the light.

Call Our Personal Injury Law Firm for Legal Help

No matter how many safety devices and guidelines are put in place, vehicle accidents will still happen, most often caused by another driver’s negligence or reckless behavior. If you or a family member have sustained injuries in a crash caused by another party, call a Virginia car accident attorney to discuss what legal recourse you may have for your pain and loss. Under Virginia law, victims who are injured due to the actions of another person are entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain, emotional distress, and other losses they may have suffered due to those injuries. Contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a skilled Norfolk car accident lawyer.