What is the Purpose of Red-Light Cameras?
Red-light cameras automatically take a picture of a vehicle’s license plate when the driver violates traffic laws. Red-light cameras are part of an automated photo enforcement program. The DC Metropolitan Police currently have 48 red light cameras located at intersections throughout Washington, D.C. The cameras are only able to take a picture of a vehicle’s rear license plate and not the driver. However, these cameras could make drivers think twice before driving through a red light.
The Purpose of Red-Light Cameras
Red-light cameras are installed to prevent accidents and injuries. Red-light cameras also prove liability when involved in an intersection accident. Whether both drivers claim they had a green light, or neither party admits fault, a red-light camera can prove who was at-fault for the accident. Running a red light can lead to the following accidents:
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Side-swipe accidents
- T-bone accidents
Between 2004 and 2013, an estimated 7,799 people were killed as a result of drivers who ran red lights. Injuries can range from minor to catastrophic, depending on the type of accident.
DC Municipal Regulation 18-2103
DC Municipal Regulation 18-2103 states that a vehicle facing a red light must stop before it enters an intersection and must remain stopped until a green light or flashing yellow light is shown. A vehicle may turn right on a red light only when it is safe to do so. If either one of these rules is violated and caught on camera, the driver will face fines, in addition to receiving two points on their driver’s record if an infraction is issued.
What to Do After an Intersection Accident
If you were injured by a driver who ran a red light and caused an intersection accident, you may have legal recourse. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will review the facts of your case, which may involve obtaining witness accounts, red-light camera footage, and documentation of the damage of both vehicles. Therefore, it is important to call 911, if you are able to do so, and take pictures of the accident scene, overall damage to the vehicles, and any injuries you sustained in the accident.
Washington DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Represent Victims Injured Due to Driver Negligence
If you were injured due to driver negligence, contact a Washington DC car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Our experienced lawyers will fight for your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve for your suffering. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963. Located in Washington, DC, we proudly serve clients throughout DC and Maryland.