What's the Deal With Short Yellow Lights and Red Light Cameras? Are They Causing More Accidents? Is it a Win Win for Insurance Companies?
As I drive to and from work every day, I notice more and more red light cameras popping up at many intersections. In fact, I must confess that I have received several notices for running a red light when in fact due diligence as a driver required me to slow down or stop in order to avoid striking the vehicle in front of me. The coffers of many cities are brimming with profits due to the fact that shorter yellow lights make more money when cameras are triggered by “offenders”.
As a Philadelphia car accident lawyer who has handled tens of thousands of accident cases in the last 33 years, it appears to be common sense that those rushing through yellow lights to avoid a ticket are more likely to be involved in an accident.
What prompted me to write this piece is due to the fact that last night as I was driving home, I heard a loud screech behind me at a prominent red light camera intersection that is often cited as being hazardous. I had cautiously brought my vehicle to a slower speed to avoid striking another vehicle when the vehicle behind me literally came inches from slamming into my bumper. Of course, the strobe of the red light camera captured me, even though I could have safely proceeded through the green light but not for cautionary efforts to avoid a crash.
