Running red lights

Warning of danger ahead

Want to get in an accident? Run a red light.

Statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicate 260,000 vehicle incidents occur each year because of people running red lights. It's a growing problem for some simple reasons:

• People consciously try to beat the light to avoid waiting at the intersection.
• Multitasking behind the wheel takes people's eyes and concentration off the road, leaving them more vulnerable to accidentally running a red light.

It's enough of a problem that as many as 21 states and the District of Columbia allow cameras to be used to monitor intersections for red light violations. They include:

Arizona	New Mexico
California	New York
Colorado	North Carolina
Delaware	Ohio
Florida	Oregon
Georgia	Rhode Island
Illinois	South Dakota
Iowa	Tennessee
Maryland	Texas
Massachusetts	Washington
Missouri

What Can You Do?

Not only do photo-controlled intersections make it easy for police to send tickets to red-light violators, but people who run a red light increase the chances of an accident not only for themselves, but other motorists as well. Consider the following defensive driving approaches at intersections:

• As you approach intersections, be prepared to stop not only for a light change, but also for other drivers who don't stop for a red light
• Cautiously enter the intersection when your light changes to green - it's best if you can avoid being the first car into the intersection - and continue to watch for those who run their red light
• Be especially cautious in congested, urban traffic and at peak times, when it's more likely that people will run a red light
• Give extra attention when turning at intersections

Help is available

At Allstate, we want to not only provide the insurance coverage that helps protect your people and property, but to give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're backed by a team of Loss Control Consultants who understand your business and can help you prevent a loss before it happens.

That's why we've created the Allstate Safety Line at 800-877-6998, where Loss Control Consultants personally help small-business owners learn more about:

• Fleet and auto safety
• Accident investigations
• Self-inspection procedures
• Safety training
• Fire protection and safety
• Hazard control methods
• Safety and health rules and regulations that apply to your particular business
• Much more

Just call us anytime with your contact information and briefly describe your question or issue. If a trained Loss Control Specialist isn't immediately available, one will call you back by the end of the next business day.