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A red light violation happens when a motorist enters an intersection after the light has turned red. Motorists in an intersection when the light changes to red (waiting to turn left, for example) are not red light runners. Motorists are more likely to be injured in crashes involving red light running than any other type of crash. In the US for 2002: - 207,000 Red Light Running Crashes
- 921 Deaths
- 178,000 Injuries
- Cost to the public - $14 billion + per year
Why do people run "red" lights?
For many reasons, such as: they are in a hurry, the light is poorly timed, the wait time is too long, limited visibility of traffic lights, driver inattention and disrespect for traffic lights and laws. What does a "red" light mean?
In Ohio, a red light means to come to a complete stop before you reach the intersection, stop line or crosswalk. Remain stopped as long as the light is red unless right turns are allowed on red. When may you turn on red?
You may turn right on a red light only after coming to a full stop unless a posted sign states "no turn on red." What does a "yellow" light mean?
In Ohio, a yellow light or arrow warns that the light is about to change. If you have not entered the intersection, you should come to a stop, if you can do so safely. If you are already in the intersection, you should continue moving in order to clear the intersection. Speeding up to beat the red light could cause a crash. Be aware that entering an intersection while the light is yellow is also illegal. A yellow light only allows traffic already in the intersection to keep going. What does a "flashing yellow light" mean?
A flashing yellow light means "Warning: Continue with Caution." What does a "flashing red light" mean?
A flashing red light should be treated as a STOP sign. The driver should come to a complete stop, and then go when it is clear. Does a driver have to signal when stopping or turning?
Yes, a driver must give a signal when stopping or turning. The signal may be a signal from the car or a hand/arm signal given by the driver. Signals should be given at least 100 feet ahead of the turning point.
What if the traffic lights aren’t working due to a power failure?
Traffic lights that aren’t working should be treated like a four way stop. All vehicles in all directions must come to a complete stop at the light.
Safety Tips: Drive Defensively At All Times!
- Watch out for motorists running red lights every time you come to an intersection.
- Relax. Take a deep breath, talk with someone, listen to music. Getting stressed and upset will not get you there any faster.
- Don't drive when you are angry, upset or overly tired.
- Plan ahead to avoid the worst traffic.
- Allow yourself plenty of time.
- Go ahead and be late. It won't kill you to be 10 minutes late but it might kill you or someone else if you drive aggressively.
- Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Safe driving encourages other drivers to be safe. Aggressive driving influences others to drive aggressively.
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