California Car Collisions at Traffic Stops
Due to population growth spurts in recent years, more red lights have been constructed at specific intersections. What was once a 4-way stop has now become a full--
On traffic light-controlled intersection. These are implemented to make traffic flow more efficient since 4-way stops or blinking yellow lights can sometimes be inefficient in getting the traffic flowing. Our San Diego car accident attorney explains further.
Running Red Lights Is Dangerous
The problem is that some motorists forget this, especially in a hurry. They tend to "speed up" when they say a yellow light instead of slowing the speed of their vehicle to a stop. Or, they will speed on through a red light long after it turns red - known as a "red light run." Most motorists who do this will tell you they "were in a hurry," but it translates into failure to take responsibility.
You cannot trade other drivers' safety for the importance of being on time somewhere. Some red-light runners do this due to simply not paying attention or daydreaming while driving. Or they ran the red light because they were distracted by something while driving. Either way, choosing to run a red light or not seeing a red light can spell disaster to both the red-light runner and the other vehicle that crashes due to the acts happening all at once.
Installation of Red Light Cameras in California to Help Prevent Auto Accidents
Computerized Intersection Cameras have been installed over busy intersections throughout California. In San Diego County, certain intersections have them, and they are supposed to catch motorists running red lights. Much criticism has come about due to this trend happening. Local city governments tend to favor this approach and argue they can now monitor busy intersections remotely.
Only time will tell what type of impact these red-light cameras will have in San Diego and the rest of California. At the time of this writing, there are about 26 states in the U.S. employing remote red light cameras, and some early statistics have suggested a drop in auto accidents caused by running red lights.
Other Dangerous Conditions With Red Traffic Lights
Sometimes, other conditions may contribute to a red light run, which is the traffic light itself. Although rare, the entire traffic light "may" be defective and cause a double green light. This means a green light shows in both directions, causing or contributing to a car accident. In those cases, a traffic light injury lawyer needs credible and expert witness testimony regarding the defective light.
An expert witness can test and monitor the "timing" of the light, which may have been the defective part of the traffic light itself. Timing issues or simple wear and tear of the traffic light or wiring system may be to blame. If you suspect your auto accident case was caused by a defective green or red traffic light, you should call an experienced red light traffic lawyer today. Our San Diego personal injury lawyer specializes in these types of car accident cases, and we can help you.
