Traffic signals exist in busy areas to help regulate traffic flow and prevent motorists from colliding. Yet, they only do so much when drivers refuse to follow their direction. Recent research shows that Florida’s drivers are among those most likely to blow through red lights. When they do so, injuries and fatalities are a frequent result.
According to AAA Newsroom, Florida currently ranks fifth in the nation as far as the number of people dying in wrecks caused by red-light runners. Tied with Colorado, Florida saw 99 road deaths caused by red-light runners in 2017 alone, which is an almost-60% increase over two years prior.
Florida-specific statistics
Between 2008 and 2017, a total of 741 people died in red-light crashes at Florida intersections. In about 46% of instances, the people who died were not the drivers who ran the lights, but rather, others making their way through the signaled intersection.
Hypocritical behaviors
Research also indicates that many American drivers have hypocritical viewpoints when it comes to running red lights. Most, or 85%, of motorists, agree that running red lights is quite dangerous. Yet, one out of every three drivers says they have run a red light within the past 30 days, even though they had an opportunity to stop. Almost half of all drivers also assert that law enforcement officials are unlikely to stop and cite them for blowing through red lights.
AAA recommends that drivers have their feet poised to hit the brake when approaching a signaled intersection. Drivers should also keep an eye on changing lights to avoid entering an intersection after the light has turned red.
