When Drivers Run Red Lights: The Deadly Consequences for Pedestrians
Intersections are among the most dangerous places on the road—especially for pedestrians. One of the most reckless behaviors a driver can engage in is running a red light. When that happens, the consequences can be devastating, particularly for people on foot who rely on crosswalk signals for their safety. In this blog post, we’ll break down why running red lights is so dangerous, how it leads to pedestrian accidents, and what victims can do if they’ve been hurt.
Why Running a Red Light Is So Dangerous
Traffic signals are designed to prevent chaos and ensure the orderly flow of cars, cyclists, and pedestrians. When a driver runs a red light, they’re essentially ignoring a safety system that protects everyone on the road.
Red-light running can lead to high-speed collisions in the intersection and puts unsuspecting pedestrians in the direct path of an oncoming vehicle.
In many pedestrian accident cases, the walker is crossing legally—with a “walk” signal—only to be struck by a driver who failed to stop at a red light. These are often T-bone or straight-through crashes that happen so quickly the pedestrian has no time to react or get out of the way.
Common Injuries Pedestrians Suffer
Pedestrians hit by red-light runners can suffer catastrophic injuries because they have no protection in a collision. Common injuries include:
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs),
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Spinal cord injuries and paralysis,
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Broken bones and fractures,
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Internal bleeding.
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Lacerations and soft tissue damage, and
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Wrongful death in severe cases.
Even lower-speed crashes can leave a pedestrian with long-term physical and emotional scars.
Who Is at Fault?
In most red-light pedestrian accident cases, the driver who ran the light is clearly at fault.
Traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimony, and police reports can help establish liability. However, insurance companies may still try to shift blame or claim the pedestrian was “distracted” or “not in the crosswalk.”
That’s why it’s crucial for injured pedestrians to gather evidence, seek immediate medical attention, and speak to a personal injury attorney who can protect their rights and help them pursue fair compensation.
Legal Options for Injured Pedestrians
If you’ve been hit by a driver who ran a red light, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical bills,
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Lost wages,
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Pain and suffering,
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Rehabilitation costs,
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Future medical care, and
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Loss of enjoyment of life.
A personal injury lawyer can help you build a strong case, negotiate with the insurance company, and, if necessary, take your case to court.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.