When do you feel the most vulnerable while driving? Most motorists feel at risk when driving on the interstate at fast speeds. However, it may surprise you to learn that the most unsafe place on the road might just be the intersection in your own town. Busy corners and intersections are often the site of serious traffic accidents because drivers fail to stop at red lights.
With the increase in traffic cameras, one would think that drivers would stop running red lights. Unfortunately, red light running continues throughout Florida. When drivers run red lights, it can be very dangerous. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicates that the leading cause of urban traffic accidents is red light running.
It is mostly drivers of cars that run red lights, but semi truck drivers also participate in this dangerous driving behavior. When large commercial trucks run red lights, the outcome can often be deadly due to the size and weight of the truck.
Recently, a semi truck driver failed to stop at a red light in Tampa, causing a multiple car and truck accident this past May. This truck accident took place around 11 p.m. on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard near Interstate 75. Because the truck driver ran a red light as he was exiting northbound I-75, he smashed into three vehicles. Two of the three cars were trapped underneath the overturned trailer and were dragged along with the truck.
As a result of this Tampa truck accident, the two drivers who were trapped in their vehicles had to be extricated. All three drivers were transported to area hospitals for medical treatment for the injuries they sustained.
It is common knowledge that people get hurt by drivers running red lights, so why do drivers continue to run red lights? In this situation, the truck driver told police that he thought he was on an extension of the interstate. While this truck driver was confused or not paying close attention to the road and traffic lights, other drivers run red lights for these common reasons:
- Distracted at the wheel
- Tired
- Drunk
- Drugged or taking too many prescription meds
- In a rush
Unfortunately, truck drivers who run red lights often cause innocent motorists severe injuries that result in disabilities and even death. Some of the serious injuries that occur in Tampa and Sarasota truck accidents include broken femur, amputation, paralysis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and death.
If a truck driver ran a red light and you have been injured or your loved one was killed, you need to contact an experienced Sarasota truck accident lawyer immediately to find out your rights. Mallard Perez can answer your questions in a free consultation, and we can help you seek compensation for your damages. Call us today at 888-409-3805.