Red Light Running Crashes
As an experienced Tennessee automobile accident attorney I can’t tell you how many accidents I’ve handled because someone chose to run a red light. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association red light running crashes are responsible for approximately 260,000 injuries and 750 fatalities annually. It is difficult to get a clear picture of the problem, because red light running may not be identified or categorized as such on crash report forms. While education and engineering solutions are certainly important in combating red light running, automated enforcement has been receiving greater attention as an effective tool.
Several programs and resources exist to address the problem of red light running. GHSA encourages its members to support these efforts: The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has a Stop Red Light Running program that provides traffic safety information and guidelines to address red light running. In 2005, the FHWA issued Red Light Camera Systems Operational Guidelines. Not regulatory requirements, these guidelines are intended to foster discussions and initiatives that will improve intersection safety. The use of speed and red light cameras to detect vehicles committing traffic violations is referred to collectively as automated enforcement. Automated enforcement works by using a camera to capture on image of a vehicle committing a violation. Additional data collected often includes the date, time and place, speed or other pertinent details. If a violation is evident, a citation is mailed to the vehicle owner.
My experience as a Tennessee car accident attorney tells me that getting drivers to change bad driving behavior requires consistent enforcement, which automated camera systems provide. Critics of automated enforcement argue that it exists is to make money for law enforcement agencies. However, the objective of automated enforcement is to deter violators, not to catch them. Signs and publicity campaigns typically warn drivers that photo enforcement is in use. Revenue is generated from fines paid, but this is a fundamental component of all traffic enforcement programs.
If you or a loved one is hurt in an accident caused by someone running a red light contact our experienced Tennessee accident attorneys
Red Light Runners Kill
and find out about your rights and remedies.
Phillip Miller is a Tennessee Accident Attorney specializing in
Phillip has an AVVO rating of 10.0 (Superb), has been designated as a “Superlawyer”, and is the President Elect of the Tennessee Association for Justice.
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