Running Red Lights Causes Serious Car Accidents

We’ve all been there—running late, frustrated with traffic, and watching the light turn red just as you approach the intersection. Waiting feels like wasted time, and you may be tempted to “beat the light” just this once.

But running a red light is never harmless. In a split second, it can lead to devastating collisions, severe injuries, and even fatalities. When a driver fails to stop at a red light, they put everyone on the road at risk and may face serious legal responsibility for the harm they cause.

Why Drivers Run Red Lights

Running red lights is one of the leading causes of car accidents across the country. In fact, studies show that more than half of drivers admit to doing it at least occasionally.

Most drivers run red lights because:

• They’re in a hurry or impatient.

• They misjudge a yellow light and try to speed through.

• They follow too closely behind another car at an intersection.

• They’re distracted, drowsy, or impaired.

• They’re driving too fast to safely stop in time.

No matter the reason, the result is the same: reckless behavior that endangers lives. Arriving a few minutes late is never worth the risk of a catastrophic crash.

The Consequences of Running a Red Light

Collisions caused by red-light running are especially dangerous because they often involve high speeds and “T-bone” impacts—when one vehicle strikes the side of another. Unlike the front or rear of a car, the sides have little protection, making injuries far more severe.

Some of the most common injuries in red-light crashes include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

• Broken bones

• Neck and back injuries

• Internal injuries

• Facial and dental trauma

• Severe soft tissue damage

Sadly, red-light accidents also account for hundreds of deaths nationwide each year, along with hundreds of thousands of injuries.

Beyond the physical harm, running a red light can bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers may face:

• Traffic tickets and steep fines

• Increased insurance rates or even loss of coverage

• Liability for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage

• Civil lawsuits for negligence

• Criminal charges if the crash results in serious injury or death

How to Avoid Red Light Accidents

While you can’t control the choices of other drivers, you can take steps to protect yourself and your passengers:

• Always stop at red lights, even if you’re running late.

• Reduce your speed and avoid “racing the yellow.”

• Wait a few seconds after your light turns green to check for cross-traffic.

• Stay alert and avoid distractions, especially near intersections.

Pursuing Compensation After a Red Light Crash

If you were hurt because another driver ran a red light, you have the right to hold them accountable. Running a red light is negligent behavior, and negligent drivers can be held legally responsible for the harm they cause.

Through a car accident claim, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses and hospital bills

• Lost wages and reduced earning ability

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Property damage

• Rehabilitation and future medical needs

An experienced car accident lawyer can help gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Applebaum Accident Group Can Help

At Applebaum Accident Group, we know how devastating red-light accidents can be. Our team has years of experience representing crash victims and standing up to insurance companies that try to minimize payouts.

We provide compassionate, personalized representation and fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for our clients. If you or a loved one was injured in a red-light accident, don’t face this battle alone.

Call Applebaum Accident Group today for a consultation(855-Call-Paul). We’re ready to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help  you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.