Stop on Red, Save a Life
- Category: Blog
- Posted On:
- Written By: Aspen Di Ioli, BSN, RN, PHN, CEN, TCRN, MICN, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Center
More than 7,000 lives were needlessly ended as a result of people being struck by motor vehicles in 2020 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nearly 1,000 of these deaths were caused by crashes that involved running a red light.
This year, during Stop on Red Week, August 7 – 13, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center’s Trauma Center is bringing awareness to the importance of following basic road safety and the impact of unsafe driving on accidental deaths.
We always think of following the “Red Light” rule as “easy,” but the truth is that thousands of people are killed or injured every year from breaking this one simple rule. In these times of abundant distraction and technology, it is all too easy to accidentally run a red light. During Stop on Red Week, and every week after, please make the extra effort to follow the Red Light rule and help prevent an unnecessary death or injury.
We call on YOU to follow safe driving practices by stopping at red lights, stop signs and following traffic laws. Together, we can contribute to safer roads and a safer community for all.
Walking near a road? Be sure to follow these Pedestrian Safety Tips:
- When walking at night, make yourself visible by carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing.
- Cross at a designated crosswalk or intersection, whenever possible.
- Walk on the sidewalk or path next to the road. If a sidewalk or path is not available, you should walk on the shoulder facing traffic.
- Avoid being distracted by while walking by using electronic devices, such as mobile phones and earbuds or headphones.
Four Facts You Should Know About Car Accidents:
- Road crashes are the leading cause of death in the U.S. for people aged from one to 54 years old.
- Most accidents happen on a Saturday.
- An alcohol-related death occurs every 52 minutes. Drinking and driving increases the risk of a car accident.
- At least 20% of crashes are caused by drivers who fall asleep at the wheel or have driver fatigue.
