The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety states that, in 2010, 673 people were killed and an estimated 122,000 were injured in crashes that involved red light-running. To prevent these car accidents, many cities like Dallas have put up red light cameras that send the driver who ran a red light a ticket in the mail. Even though this should prevent car accidents at Dallas intersections, it seems that sometimes red light cameras cause car accidents.
In a study done by the North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University for the U.S. Department of Transportation, researchers looked at 303 intersections over a 57-month period. The study findings stated that instead of reducing crashes, red light cameras are associated with higher levels of many types and severity categories of crashes.
A 2007 Virginia Research Council study had more mixed results, finding that the red light cameras are associated with an increase in rear-end crashes and a decrease in red light running car accidents. Researches recommend evaluating the need for red-light cameras on a case-by-case basis.
Some believe that cities support red light cameras because when people pay off their tickets, it increases city income. In Fort Worth, records show cameras have generated $23 million. The camera generating the most money is on the West Freeway Frontage Road at Ashland Avenue, bringing in $1.7 million since 2008.
Dallas car accidents occur at many intersections and highways every day. If you or a loved one were the victim of a negligent driver, a Dallas car accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP today and set-up your free consultation.
