Why Running Red Lights Is Becoming Fort Myers' Deadliest Car Accident Cause

Nearly 4.4 million U.S. drivers ran red lights in 2022, making running red lights one of the most dangerous driving behaviors on American roads. This seemingly small traffic violation has deadly consequences, especially in Florida, which ranks third for deaths caused by red-light running.

When you approach an intersection in Fort Myers, you face a particularly high risk. Every day, almost three people are killed on U.S. highways due to impatient and reckless drivers who run red lights. In fact, running red lights is the leading cause of intersection crashes in the United States. These accidents often result in devastating T-bone collisions where vehicles are struck from the side, causing severe injuries because cars lack sufficient "crumple zones" on their sides. The impact can lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and other life-altering injuries.

Throughout this article, you'll learn what legally constitutes running a red light in Florida, why these violations are especially dangerous in Fort Myers, and what happens if you're involved in a red-light accident – whether you're the one who ran the light or were hit by someone who did.

What does it mean to run a red light?

Understanding exactly what constitutes running a red light helps you avoid this dangerous traffic violation. According to Florida Statute 316.075, running a red light occurs whenever a driver fails to stop completely at a traffic signal displaying a red light.

Definition under Florida law

Florida law is quite specific about what running a red light means. The statute states that "vehicular traffic facing a steady red signal shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection and shall remain standing until a green indication is shown".

For drivers, this translates to a straightforward rule: you must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line. Furthermore, your vehicle must remain stationary until the light turns green. The position of your car at the moment the light turns red is crucial—if you haven't completely passed the white stop line when the light changes to red, you've technically run the light.

Right turns on red and common misconceptions

One frequently misunderstood aspect involves right turns at red lights. Under Florida Statute § 316.075(1)(c), after coming to a complete stop at a red light, drivers may turn right unless a sign prohibits it. However, you must yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and any traffic with the green light.

A common misconception is that yellow light times are shortened to generate more violations. Nevertheless, Florida has regulations mandating minimum light times, and intersections with red light cameras typically meet or exceed these standards.

Additionally, many drivers believe rolling stops for right turns are acceptable. Yet, approximately 80% of all red-light violations involve right turns without a full stop. This violation can result in a ticket just like driving straight through a red light.

How red-light cameras detect violations

Red-light cameras use sophisticated technology to catch violations. These systems employ sensors embedded in the road or infrared technology to detect when vehicles cross the intersection's stop line after the light turns red.

The camera activates only after the light turns red, with a slight delay to prevent photographing cars while the light is still yellow. When a vehicle passes through the intersection during a red light, the camera captures multiple images, including the license plate and the vehicle in the intersection.

Once captured, an officer typically reviews the footage before a citation is issued. If approved, you'll receive a notice by mail with a base fine of approximately $158 plus four points on your license.

Why red-light running is so dangerous in Fort Myers

Fort Myers presents unique dangers when it comes to running red lights, with several factors combining to create deadly scenarios at local intersections.

High-speed intersections and urban layout

The Cape Coral-Fort Myers metropolitan area ranks as the 16th most dangerous region for pedestrians nationwide. Certain intersections stand out as particularly hazardous, such as US-41 and Daniels Parkway, which witnessed ten fatalities across nine crashes during 2021-2022 alone. This intersection sees over 103,550 vehicles daily, resulting in approximately 106 accidents annually—almost two crashes every week. Moreover, the intersection of State Road 82 and Daniels Parkway in Fort Myers is identified as a high-risk location, connected to 105 motorcycle fatalities in a single year.

Motorcycle vulnerability at intersections

Motorcyclists face exceptional risks at Fort Myers intersections. More than 70 percent of motorcycle accidents occurred at locations with intersecting traffic. Left-turning vehicles account for 30 percent of motorcycle crashes, often resulting in severe injuries or death. Since motorcycles offer minimal protection, head injuries, neck injuries, and even burns from sideswipes (which constitute 18 percent of motorcycle accidents) are common.

Pedestrian and bicyclist risks

Throughout Fort Myers, cyclists and pedestrians face significant dangers. Recently, a cyclist was struck and killed in a crosswalk near Trailhead Park. As one safety advocate explained, "If a cyclist or pedestrian is in the crosswalk, they've got the right of way, and traffic is required to stop". Visibility challenges exist on divided roads where "the car in the nearest lane may see you, but the car in the far lane may not". Consequently, Florida ranks as the second deadliest state for pedestrians.

T-bone collisions and side impacts

T-bone collisions occur when one vehicle strikes another from the side, forming a "T" shape. These side-impact crashes are particularly devastating since cars have weaker side structures compared to the front. The driver or passengers in the impacted vehicle have little protection, resulting in severe injuries. These collisions typically happen at intersections when one driver disregards traffic signals.

The real cost of red-light accidents

The aftermath of a red-light crash extends far beyond the initial impact, creating ripple effects through victims' lives that can last for years or even a lifetime.

Common injuries from red-light crashes

Red-light accidents primarily result in severe injuries due to their high-impact nature. T-bone collisions are especially devastating because vehicles offer minimal side protection. Victims commonly suffer:

Traumatic brain injuries and concussions, sometimes with permanent cognitive effects
Spinal cord damages that may cause temporary or permanent paralysis
Multiple or complex bone fractures, particularly in T-bone accidents
Soft tissue injuries affecting the neck, shoulders, and back
Internal bleeding and organ damage

Notably, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists face even greater risks at intersections, as they lack exterior protection against these violent impacts.

Medical expenses and long-term care

The financial burden following a red-light accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills often reach hundreds of thousands of dollars, with some settlements involving $190,000 or more in medical expenses alone. Beyond initial emergency treatment, many victims require ongoing rehabilitation, specialized equipment, and home modifications to accommodate lasting disabilities.

A study sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration found that right-angle crashes decreased by 25% in areas with red light cameras, creating an aggregate economic benefit of more than $18.5 million across seven communities.

Emotional trauma and loss of income

Unfortunately, approximately 9% of motor vehicle accident survivors develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). With nearly 6.5 million reported crashes each year, this means 585,000 car accident survivors will experience serious emotional distress. Victims often describe feelings of denial, shock, grief, anger, and fear—emotional wounds that can manifest as nightmares, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

Additionally, lost wages and diminished earning capacity compound the financial strain. One settlement case involved almost $10,000 in lost wages on top of $100,000 in medical expenses.

What happens if you run a red light and caused an accident

If you run a red light and cause an accident, you'll likely bear financial responsibility for all damages. Even if the violation was unintentional, it's considered negligence under the law. You could face both civil liability for the victim's expenses and significant legal penalties.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, and need an attorney call our Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Naples Car Accident Lawyers at Pittman Law firm PL today for a free consultation.

Who is at fault in a red-light accident?

Determining fault in red-light accidents involves several factors that can significantly impact your claim. Understanding these elements is crucial for protecting your rights after a collision.

If someone runs a red light and you hit them who is at fault

Typically, the driver who runs a red light bears primary responsibility for the accident. Under Florida law, all drivers must obey traffic signals, therefore violating this rule serves as strong evidence of negligence. Despite this general rule, liability isn't always clear-cut. Primarily, fault depends on who had the legal right-of-way when the collision occurred. Indeed, regardless of having a green light, a driver can still share fault if they violated other traffic laws or failed to exercise reasonable caution.

Florida's modified comparative negligence rule

As of March 24, 2023, Florida shifted from pure comparative negligence to a modified system. This significant change means that if you're found more than 50% responsible for an accident, you cannot recover any damages. Previously, albeit partially at fault, you could still recover compensation reduced by your percentage of responsibility—essentially, someone 55% at fault could still recover 45% of their damages. Henceforth, the same person would receive nothing. This rule applies to all negligence claims except medical malpractice.

Role of traffic cameras and eyewitnesses

Traffic camera footage provides unbiased, time-stamped evidence that clearly shows violations like running red lights. In one notable Los Angeles case, camera footage exonerated a driver wrongfully accused of causing a multi-vehicle pileup by showing another driver running a red light. Furthermore, eyewitness testimony offers firsthand accounts that can corroborate your version of events. Their statements about drivers' actions, traffic conditions, and signals can strengthen your claim substantially.

Vehicle defects and road design issues

Beyond driver behavior, external factors may influence liability. Vehicle defects such as faulty brakes could prevent a driver from stopping at a red light. Likewise, poor road design or confusing signage at intersections might create hazardous conditions contributing to accidents. In these situations, manufacturers or government entities responsible for road maintenance might share liability.

Conclusion

The Deadly Reality of Red Light Running

Red light violations represent far more than a simple traffic infraction. Throughout Fort Myers, these violations lead to devastating consequences for drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. Most compelling evidence shows that T-bone collisions resulting from red light running cause some of the most severe injuries due to limited side protection in vehicles.

Understanding Florida's red light laws remains essential for your safety. Before making right turns on red, you must come to a complete stop - a rule many drivers mistakenly ignore. Additionally, Florida's shift to modified comparative negligence means you cannot recover damages if found more than 50% responsible for an accident.

Perhaps the most alarming fact stands clear: Fort Myers contains several high-risk intersections where red light running proves particularly deadly. US-41 and Daniels Parkway, with its staggering accident rate of nearly two crashes weekly, exemplifies this danger.

The aftermath of these accidents extends well beyond the initial impact. Medical expenses often reach hundreds of thousands of dollars, while emotional trauma affects approximately 9% of crash survivors. Eventually, these accidents create ripple effects through victims' lives lasting months, years, or even lifetimes.

Although traffic cameras and proper enforcement help reduce these dangerous violations, your vigilance remains the strongest defense. Regardless of having the right-of-way, defensive driving at intersections could save your life. After all, the few seconds saved by rushing through a yellow light pale in comparison to the potential lifetime of consequences following a serious accident.

Should you find yourself injured in a red light accident, seeking legal counsel immediately helps protect your rights. Undoubtedly, understanding both your responsibilities and legal options represents your best path forward after these life-altering events.

FAQs

Q1. What are the consequences of running a red light in Fort Myers? Running a red light in Fort Myers can lead to severe consequences, including deadly accidents, hefty fines, and points on your driving record. It's the leading cause of intersection crashes and can result in devastating T-bone collisions, causing severe injuries or fatalities.

Q2. How does Florida's modified comparative negligence rule affect red light accident claims? Under Florida's modified comparative negligence rule, if you're found more than 50% responsible for a red light accident, you cannot recover any damages. This is a significant change from the previous system and applies to all negligence claims except medical malpractice.

Q3. Are right turns on red legal in Fort Myers? Yes, right turns on red are generally legal in Fort Myers after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it. However, drivers must yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and any traffic with the green light. Failing to come to a full stop before turning right on red is a common violation.

Q4. What types of injuries are common in red light accidents? Common injuries in red light accidents include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, complex bone fractures, soft tissue injuries, and internal organ damage. These injuries can be particularly severe in T-bone collisions due to limited side protection in vehicles.

Q5. How do red light cameras work in Fort Myers? Red light cameras in Fort Myers use sensors or infrared technology to detect when vehicles cross the intersection's stop line after the light turns red. The cameras activate only after a slight delay to avoid photographing cars while the light is still yellow. If a violation is detected, an officer reviews the footage before issuing a citation.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship with Pittman Law Firm, P.L.