Red Light Car Accident - St. Louis Injury Lawyer
by
Christopher Hoffmann on Feb. 06, 2023
Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Car Accident Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: This article discusses the dangers of running red lights and the consequences of this reckless behavior. It explores the reasons why some drivers may run a red light, such as distracted driving, impatience, lack of awareness, or drunk driving. It also highlights the risks of running a red light, including the risk of getting into a car accident or facing legal repercussions such as a ticket or criminal charges.
When red lights appear, they mean one thing and one thing only for motorists: stop. It's a simple concept, but unfortunately, not everyone follows this rule. In fact, running red lights has become a common habit for some drivers, putting themselves and others at risk on the road. This article will discuss the dangers of running red lights and the consequences of this reckless behavior.
Why Do People Run Red Lights?
- Distracted driving - With the advent of smartphones and other technologies, it has become easier for drivers to become distracted while driving. This could lead to them running a red light simply because they were not paying attention.
- Impatience - Impatience can also be a factor, with some drivers feeling too rushed to wait at a red light.
- Lack of awareness - Sometimes, lack of awareness could also be responsible for people running red lights. An unaware driver may unintentionally speed and pass through a signal without realizing its color has changed to red.
- Drunk or impaired driving - Alcohol and drugs can significantly impair a person's judgment and reaction time, leading to an increased risk of running red lights.
- Reckless behavior - Unfortunately, some drivers simply don't care about traffic laws and may choose to run red lights as a form of reckless behavior. This can put themselves and others at risk on the road.
The Dangers Of Running Red Lights
Risk of Accident
One of the most obvious risks associated with running a red light is getting into a car accident. Not only could you crash into another vehicle with the right of way, but you risk colliding with pedestrians and bicyclists who also have the right of way when the traffic light turns red. This can cause severe physical damage as well as potentially fatal injuries.
In addition, if you are found to be responsible for a red light car incident, you may be held liable for any resulting damages caused.
Legal Repercussions
Running a red light carries legal repercussions as well. If caught running a red light, you may be issued a ticket or face criminal charges such as reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter if someone is killed due to your actions. The fines associated with these charges can be quite substantial. They could also increase insurance premiums due to points added to your license.
Running a red light is not worth it, no matter how much time it saves you in the short term. Always remember to pay attention when driving and follow traffic laws and signals.
The Hoffman Law Firm is here to help you get the compensation you compensation if you've been injured in a St. Louis car accident. Contact us today for a free initial consultation with a St. Louis car accident lawyer with over 20 years of experience. Call us 24/7 at (314) 361-424.