DEATH CAUSED BY DRIVER RUNNING RED LIGHT

The number of people killed by the other driver running a red light has hit a 10-year high. Therefore, AAA is urging drivers and pedestrians to use caution at traffic signals. This is from an article in the Associated Press (AP).

The latest figures available show 939 people were killed by vehicles running a red light, according to a AAA study of government crash data. It’s the highest death toll since 2008, and 28% higher than in 2012. AAA says two people are killed every day in the U.S. by drivers who don’t stop for a signal.

“Drivers who decide to run a red light when they could have stopped safely are making a reckless choice. This puts other road users in danger,” said David Yang, executive director of AAA’s Foundation for Traffic Safety.

At the Rochlin Law Firm, our lawyers recognize that a car can run the red light to beat the light. Of course, sometimes the driver is just distracted entering the intersection. Either way, the result can be tragic and require the help of a car accident lawyer.

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AAA isn’t sure why the numbers are on the rise. Since 2012 the overall number of highway fatalities rose 10%, far short of the 28% increase in red-light running deaths.

Of course, there are more people driving more miles. However, that doesn’t explain why red-light deaths are increasing at a faster rate, said a senior researcher for the AAA Foundation. He said he suspects distracted driving played a role, as did traffic lights that weren’t timed optimally. For example, perhaps a yellow caution cycle is too short.

In its analysis, AAA also found that 28% of crash deaths at intersections with signals happened because a driver ran a red light.

The automobile club recommends that governments increase use of red light cameras to boost enforcement. It also says drivers should prepare to stop as they are entering an intersection and tap their brakes while approaching a light to warn other drivers of a possible stop. AAA also recommends waiting a second after a light changes to green before proceeding. That allows you time to make sure crossing traffic has stopped.

For pedestrians and cyclists, AAA recommends taking a few seconds to make sure traffic has stopped before crossing a street. It also says to be visible, make eye contact with drivers and stay alert by not wearing headphones while walking or riding.

CAR ACCIDENT COMPENSATION ATTORNEYS

If you are injured in a car accident or a family member is killed because the other driver ran a red light, call us and speak with an attorney for a free consultation. Our top auto accident lawyers have over 25 years’ experience. We represent people throughout Minnesota.

We have offices to meet in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Edina. However our best car accident lawyers will also come to your home or the hospital in Brooklyn Park, Forest Lake, Mankato, Albert Lea, Duluth, Plymouth, Apple Valley, and other cities throughout Minnesota. An attorney will explain the car accident insurance issues to you, make sure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you are entitled to.