Fender bender? Are red-light cameras to blame?

In 2015, The Illinois house limited the number of cities that can have red-light cameras installed. While many cities no longer have them, Edwardsville is considered a “home-rule” community, meaning they can keep using red-light cameras to regulate traffic violations.

A recent study shows that red-light cameras may not do any good in stopping traffic violations, and possibly even lead to more accidents overall. More cars will slam on their brakes rather than risking a ticket for running a red light. The excessive force at which the stop causes many rear-end collisions.

Injuries from low-speed accidents

Let’s say that you slammed on your brakes to avoid running a red light and the driver behind you rear ends your vehicle. It is possible to receive injuries from this accident. Common low-speed accident injuries include:

  • Injury to the neck and head, such as whiplash
  • Injury to the back
  • Trauma from steering wheel collision

Low-speed accidents are classified as accidents that happen at speeds of under 10 miles per hour. However, not all rear-end collisions are at low speeds. If you are injured when rear-ended by another car traveling at a higher speed, it can cause much more physical trauma.

Red-light accidents can happen at any speed. If you were hit at a high speed by a car coming up behind you, make sure to call the police to the scene, exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver and seek medical attention. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.