A Nationwide Call for Safer Intersections
Every year, the first week of August marks Stop on Red Week across North America. In 2025, this observance will take place from August 3 to August 9. Established by the Federal Highway Administration in 1995, this public safety campaign highlights the serious consequences of red-light running. It also promotes safer driving habits at intersections—a critical step as traffic fatalities continue to rise.
The Toll of Red-Light Running
The statistics paint a sobering picture:
- According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 1,086 people died and more than 136,000 were injured in red-light running crashes in 2023.
- Red-light-related deaths have increased by 49% since 2019, according to the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR).
- Over half of those killed are innocent bystanders, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers.
- Houston—home to ATA Associates—leads the nation in red-light fatalities, with the removal of red-light cameras contributing to a rise in deadly crashes.
These numbers aren’t just statistics. They represent preventable tragedies, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement and awareness campaigns.
Why Drivers Run Red Lights
Understanding the root causes of red-light violations is the first step toward prevention. Common reasons include:
- Distracted driving: Phones, GPS, food, or even grooming can cause a driver to miss a signal change.
- Impatience or aggression: Some speed through intersections trying to beat the light.
- Impairment: Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time and impair judgment.
- Risk-taking: Drivers may knowingly run red lights, especially if they’ve done so without consequences before.
- Short yellow lights: Brief yellow signals don’t provide enough time to stop.
- Visibility issues: Poor lighting, obstructed views, or downhill approaches can obscure signals.
- Congestion: In heavy traffic, drivers may follow others through the intersection on red.
- Underestimating risk: Many believe they won’t get caught—or won’t cause harm.
Prevention Strategies That Work
Cities across the country are taking action to reduce red-light running and improve intersection safety:
- Upgraded signals: Houston tested LED-outlined backplates and Lighted Stop Bar Systems (LSBS) to increase visibility.
- Red-light cameras: Cities like New York and Chicago operate large-scale automated enforcement programs. These systems reduce T-bone crashes and hold violators accountable.
- Signal timing adjustments: Extending yellow lights can reduce violations by 36%. When combined with red-light cameras, that reduction grows even more.
- Sugar Land, TX: Their “Safe Light” program adjusted yellow light timing and added cameras, resulting in up to 58% fewer crashes and a 96% drop in violations.
Smarter Streets Through Innovation
Many urban centers are turning to smart technology and AI to predict violations and optimize traffic flow. These solutions help cities pinpoint dangerous intersections and make real-time adjustments.
Education in Action
In April 2025, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (just north of Houston) launched a four-day awareness effort. They used drones and patrol officers to monitor high-risk intersections. Instead of just issuing citations, violators received educational materials—a strategy focused on long-term behavior change.
Why Stop on Red Week 2025 Matters
Now in its 30th year, Stop on Red Week 2025 continues to shine a light on intersection safety. It reminds drivers to make safe, deliberate decisions behind the wheel. Preventing a tragedy can be as simple as coming to a full stop.
Get Expert Insight into Intersection Safety
Red-light crashes can result in complex legal, insurance, and regulatory cases. At ATA Associates, we specialize in the forensic investigation of intersection incidents. Our expert analysis helps clarify facts and deliver reliable evidence that stands up in court.
Contact ATA Associates today to learn how we can support your case with proven investigative expertise.
