UNDATED, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new AAA study says the number of people killed by drivers running red lights is now at a 10-year high.
Their most recent data shows that 939 people died back in 2017, which is the 5th straight year that fatalities increased from running red lights.
46% of those killed were passengers or people in other vehicles and more than 5% were pedestrians or cyclists. Just over 35% of those killed were the drivers who ran the red light.
It also states that, “More than two people are killed every day on U.S. roads by impatient and reckless drivers blowing through red lights.”
AAA also released a list of tips to help reduce these fatal crashes:
- Prepare to Stop: Lift your foot off the accelerator and “cover the brake” when preparing to enter any intersection by positioning your right foot just above the brake pedal, without touching it.
- Use Good Judgment: Monitor “stale” green lights, those that have been green a long time as you’ve approached the intersection. They are more likely to turn yellow as you arrive at the intersection.
- Tap the Brake: Tap your brakes a couple of times before fully applying them to slow down. This will catch the attention of drivers who may be inattentive or distracted behind you.
- Drive Defensively: Before you enter an intersection after the light has turned green for you, take a second after the light changes and look both ways before proceeding.
Officials add that red light cameras are helping to better track down and solve fatal crashes, reduce red light running, and save lives. Pedestrians also have to do their part to stay alert while crossing intersections.
