Some studies claim that the top reason for car accidents on urban streets is that drivers run red lights. It’s one of the reasons intersections are the most dangerous places to drive. Every 20 minutes, someone in the United States runs a red light.
These accidents are often severe, with an average of 1,000 daily injuries and seven daily fatalities—all from red-light running. So why do drivers keep doing it if it’s so clearly dangerous?
The role of impairment
For one thing, many drivers are not doing it on purpose; they’re just under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This impairment may make them believe it’s safe to run the red light, or they may not even see the light at all.
Driver distraction
Similarly, many drivers are distracted by their phones. A driver may look down at their phone to read their GPS directions, and the light turns red ahead of them. By the time they glance back at the road, there’s not enough space to stop in time. Drivers also get distracted by passengers, music, food, pets and more.
Aggressive driving
Finally, some drivers run red lights because they are aggressive or in a hurry. They may follow the last car through even though the light is clearly red, just trying to save time. Additionally, instead of slowing down and stopping when the light turns yellow, some drivers will accelerate to try to make it through.
Have you been injured in an accident caused by one of these negligent drivers? If so, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation.