While many intersections have lights and signs in place to help control the flow of traffic, these safety measures may only prove fruitful if drivers adhere to traffic laws. Drivers in Georgia who run through red lights run a greater risk of causing severe or even fatal car accidents to occur. Those who encounter similar types of negligence may find it nearly impossible to react and steer to safety, and collisions that occur under such scenarios could take a devastating toll on one’s life, or the lives of surviving loved ones.
Red light studies
Recent studies on traffic light safety revealed that nearly 90% of Americans say they understand the danger of running red lights. However, a third of those surveyed also admitted that they had sped through a red light within the past month. Studies also indicate that red light running continues to play a role in many collisions, as more than 100,000 people were injured and just under 100 others died in crashes involving similar factors over a recent one-year period.
While there may be a variety of scenarios in which one might fail to adhere to traffic lights and signs, studies suggest that certain factors may increase the chances of such decisions. According to studies, issues such as excessive speeding, impairment and distracted driving may lead to greater risks that one might fail to adhere to traffic laws. Although traffic cameras and extended signal timing are measures that may be implemented to help reduce the risks of red light running, these might not always be enough to deter such behavior.
Severe or fatal crash
Drivers who run through red lights could place the safety of everyone nearby at risk and those who suffer severe harm or sudden loss in car accidents involving such negligence may find the outcome thereof difficult to accept. Following the crash, the victim or surviving loved ones of the deceased may be left in search of guidance on their available legal avenues, but navigating the civil justice system can be a complex endeavor. Fortunately, there are attorneys who can examine the incident and assist a person in Georgia in preparing to seek the full amount of restitution entitled through the appropriate outlets.