Introduction

Over 800 people are killed and 200,000 are injured annually in collisions at red lights.

Red light running is a growing nationwide problem and a leading factor in urban traffic accidents. Illinois drivers that try to beat the light face much larger and potentially deadly consequences than citations and $100 fines. Running a red light is a complicated and dangerous action that has the potential for disaster.

When you run a red light, you create a domino effect that endangers everyone around you. By taking a personal risk behind the wheel, you could end up taking another person's life. Every time you use the road as a motorist, pedestrian or cyclist, you must interact with other people and do so responsibly.

As a driver in particular, you play an important role in traffic safety and the wellbeing of other road users. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that over 800 people are killed and another 200,000 are injured annually as the result of traffic crashes that involve a driver running a red light. Tragically, most of these injuries and deaths are completely preventable.

The rise in red light violations is part of a much larger picture; intersection safety. Statistically, more collisions occur at intersections than any other part of the road and highway system. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), intersection collisions account for approximately 45 percent of all traffic crashes and nearly 21 percent of fatalities nationally. Seeing the bigger picture will help you understand your role in traffic safety and the consequences of unsafe actions at intersections.

Being a safe driver requires knowledge, skill and awareness of potentially dangerous behaviors. This course will teach you the essential elements of intersection safety and help you correct unsafe driving behaviors. To do this, you will view detailed demonstrations of proper intersection approach procedures, safe intersection turning maneuvers and accident prevention techniques. This course is designed to provide you with key intersection safety information and the skills that you need to ensure a safe driving career well into the future.