According to data from AAA's Foundation for Traffic Safety, 939 people were killed in 2017 because someone ran a red light. It's alarming because this number is increasing at a fast rate. This number is not only at a 10-year high, but it also represents a 28% increase. 

Many of the car accidents that take place in St. Louis occur because someone ran a red light. The fact that these crashes are so common warrants a closer look at this type of accident. 

Is Running a Red Light a Criminal or a Civil Offense?

The answer to this question is both. When a person gets caught running a red light, they are subject to criminal penalties. These usually involve getting a ticket, having to appear in court, and being made to pay fines. But when their action also results in a crash that injures someone else or causes damage, it becomes a civil matter as well. 

Quite often, people do not file lawsuits in these types of accidents because they don't understand their rights. We want you to know that if the other driver is facing criminal charges, you can still file a civil lawsuit. 

Get Help From Your St. Louis Personal Injury Attorneys

The injuries you experienced after your accident should be compensated. If the other party was completely at fault, they should be made to pay. Your St. Louis personal injury attorneys can help. Please contact us.