The number of fatalities caused by running a red light in the United States has increased by 28% since 2012, according to a new study. The study also revealed shocking statistics about Maryland and this dangerous driving behavior.
About the Study on Running Red Lights
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted a study regarding the dangerous driving behavior of running a red light.
Results of Study on Running Red Lights
The AAA Foundation found that 939 people were killed in accidents in 2017 that involved running a red light. This number represents a ten-year high and a 28% increase since 2012. According to the foundation, 28% of traffic fatalities that occur at intersections with signals are due to running a red light. Of these, approximately half of the victims were passengers or occupants of other vehicles. More than 5% of the victims were pedestrians or cyclists.
In its most recent Traffic Safety Culture Index, 85% of drivers stated that running a red light was very dangerous, yet one-third report that they had actually ran a red light within the past month. 40% of respondents said they did so because they believed police would not stop them.
Maryland Statistics
According to the study, Maryland fatalities caused by running a red light rose by 45% between 2012 to 2017. Yet, there was a 30% drop from the last year of available data. In red light fatality collisions, 33% of deaths are experienced by the driver who ran the red light. 61% of the fatalities are other drivers or passengers. 5% were cyclists or pedestrians.
Ways to Prevent Red Light Running Accidents
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that changes in driver behavior are effective in reducing the number of red-light running collisions and fatalities. Recommendations to prevent these accidents include:
- Be prepared to stop – When approaching an intersection, drivers should consciously remove their foot from the accelerator and place their right foot near the brake pedal in anticipation of stopping.
- Tap the brake – Get yourself prepared to stop by tapping the brakes a couple of times before fully applying them in order to decrease your speed. This maneuver can make drivers behind you aware of your intention to stop.
- Monitor the situation – Green lights that have remained green for a long time are more likely to turn yellow. Look for indications that the light will quickly change. Also, check the intersection before entering it for any red light runners.
Tips for pedestrians and cyclists include:
- Wait after the signal changes – Give it a few seconds before entering a crosswalk in case any vehicles were rushing through a yellow or red light.
- Make eye contact – As you are about to enter the road, make eye contact with stopped vehicles to make sure they see you.
- Make yourself more visible – When walking, where bright colored clothing and stay in well-lit areas so others can clearly see you.
- Avoid distractions – Avoid using headphones when crossing the roadway to avoid distracted accidents. You also want to be able to hear the sounds around you.
Government Action to Reduce Red Light Running Fatalities
One effective way to reduce red light running is to install red light cameras. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that properly implemented red light cameras reduced red-light running fatal collisions by 21% and all types of fatal crashes at signaled intersections by 14%. Cameras increase the likelihood that runners will get caught. When the public is aware of the implementation of these cameras, they will be less likely to run the light.
States that have installed red light cameras as of August 2019 include:
- Washington
- Oregon
- California
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Iowa
- Missouri
- Louisiana
- Illinois
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Florida
- North Carolina
- Virginia
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Delaware
- Maryland
- District of Columbia
Collaborative efforts between local road safety agencies and drivers can help reduce the number of tragic red-light running accidents.
