Redlight Cameras Reduce Fatalities

Red-light cameras are effective at preventing crash-related deaths and injuries, according to a new report released August 2 by the Texas Transportation Institute.

The study compared crash frequency at 275 Texas intersections equipped with red-light cameras during the three years before and after their installation. Overall, 633 fewer crashes were recorded while red-light cameras were in use. In the year immediately following the installation of the cameras, crash frequency dropped 23 percent.

Reductions were seen in all types of crashes and on all types of roadways. Crashes specifically related to red lights declined 25 percent, and the most severe type of right-angle or T-bone crashes dropped 32 percent.

“This new research adds to the overwhelming body of evidence showing the lifesaving benefits of red-light safety cameras,” said David Kelly, president and executive director of the Washington-based National Coalition for Safer Roads. “We know that the increased use of red-light safety cameras is making drivers more aware of their behavior, reducing accidents and saving lives.”

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee intersection collision, you owe it to yourself to visit the experienced Nashville automobile accident lawyers at Phillip Miller & Associates and take advantage of a free consultation to learn about your rights and remedies. Call 615-356-2000.

Tennessee Intersection Collision

WRBC TV in Chattanooga Tennessee reports on a tragic but very preventable automobile motorcycle accident just across the Tennessee line in Georgia. The victims, an adult driver and a 7-year-old passenger who was hospitalized and is expected to recover. The pickup was stopped at an intersection and for some unknown reason, he was probably distracted, pulled out into the path of the oncoming motorcycle. The distracted pickup driver was driving without a license.

More crashes happen at intersections than at any other place. Intersections constitute a very small part of rural and urban street/highway systems, yet they are implicated in 31.9 percent of all motor vehicle crashes and 15.5 percent of all fatal crashes (2004 NHTSA data). Be very careful when approaching any intersection or driveway. Never assume another driver will yield the right-of-way to you. Always be prepared to stop.

Approaching intersections safely. To do the Tennessee Rules of the Road suggest that you employ a concept called “Traffic Checks”, which is the process of looking frequently and carefully for vehicle traffic approaching from each direction. “Traffic Checks” is especially important when merging or changing lanes AND when approaching and crossing intersections. Below are five things to remember to navigate an intersection safely:

Preventing injuries and deaths at intersections should be a high priority for towns and cities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2005 alone, nearly 9,200 people died and approximately one million people were injured in intersection-related crashes which account for approximately 40-45 percent of all crashes.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee intersection collision contact the experienced Nashville automobile accident attorneys at Phillip Miller & Associates. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.