One of the things that most frustrates drivers is having a traffic signal turn red on them just as they are approaching. Yet, as inconvenient as having to wait at a light can seem, it is crucial they do so.
Many drivers are injured each year because they or someone else failed to stop at a red light. In 2021 alone 1,109 drivers died in red-light crashes.
So why do drivers jump the lights?
People fail to stop at red lights for various reasons:
Some are distracted
They might be drunk or drugged, or they might be fully sober, but too busy talking to a passenger or looking at their phone to notice the light changing. When they finally notice it may be so late to brake they decide to carry on through rather than try and stop.
Some are in too much of a hurry
People are always rushing to get things done. Many are constantly running behind schedule. Sometimes drivers decide that they do not have time to stop, despite the light being in the process of changing to red. They may decide to risk it and perhaps speed up to try and make it through before it turns red, rather than doing the sensible thing and applying the brakes.
Some just do not care
Some drivers are so reckless that stopping at a red light never even crosses their minds. This is especially likely if they are driving a stolen vehicle, fleeing a crime scene or the police or racing against another vehicle.
Whatever the reason for a driver running a red light, it is wrong. Every driver must stop at every red light. It’s that simple. If they don’t and they injure you in a crash, then you’ll need to learn how to claim compensation.