2 Killed After Vehicle Runs Red Light
People may not think much of running a red light or stop sign once in a while, especially if they are in a hurry. However, these signs and signals are in place for a reason. When they are not followed, they can lead to serious and even fatal car accidents.
Sadly, this was recently the case in New Jersey. Two people were killed after a vehicle ran a red light and collided with the taxi they were riding in. The fatal crash occurred on the morning of December 10 at East Grand and Spring streets in Elizabeth.
A Hyundai Sonata appeared to be fleeing from an earlier incident when it ran a red light at the intersection and collided with a taxi. Two people inside the taxi — the driver and a passenger — were killed in the accident. The driver was a 47-year-old man, while the passenger was a woman whose identity was not released.
There were three people inside the other car. Two of them were arrested and placed in police custody. However, a third person left the accident scene on foot and is still at large. The crash is still under investigation. It is unknown what happened before the crash and why the Hyundai appeared to be fleeing.
Running Red Lights
Red light violations are common. By getting a license, drivers know they are supposed to obey traffic signals. However, many fail to do so, causing serious accidents.
What exactly does it mean to run a red light? If a vehicle enters an intersection any time after the light has turned red, the driver has committed a violation. Drivers who are inadvertently in an intersection when the signal changes are not considered red light runners.
In locations where a right turn on red is permitted, drivers must first come to a complete stop. That’s because vehicles coming from the left have the right of way. Those who fail to do so before turning may be considered red light runners.
Red light runners tend to have certain demographics. They were more likely than other drivers to be young men. Many also have prior crashes or convictions for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Red light runners are also more likely to be speeding at the time of the crash and less likely to have a valid driver’s license.
There are a couple ways in which communities can cut down on red light running. Red light safety cameras have been shown to reduce red light violations. Longer yellow lights can allow vehicles to get through an intersection safely without having to brake suddenly or speed up.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Traffic laws, signs, and signals are in place for a reason. Not obeying them is against the law and can lead to fatal accidents, as seen in this case.
A Morristown car accidents attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can assist you with a personal injury or wrongful death claim stemming from a crash. We’ll help you understand the steps you need to take. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.
Source:
nbcnewyork.com/news/local/2-taxi-passengers-killed-in-nj-crash-with-car-running-red-light-officials/4937160/
