Red Light Running Increases Across Ohio

Red light running has reached epidemic proportions across Ohio and the nation, with a disturbing new trend emerging – multiple vehicles following each other through the same red light.

Ohio State Highway Patrol data reveals that in 2024, there were 12,913 collisions due to drivers disregarding traffic controls, resulting in 87 deaths. Franklin County, which includes Columbus, recorded the highest number of these crashes in the state.

The problem has worsened dramatically since the pandemic. New York City reported a 54-percent increase in red light violations per camera per day since 2020, reflecting a nationwide trend of increasingly reckless driving behavior.

Nationally, 1,149 people were killed and more than 100,000 injured in crashes involving red light running in 2022 – a 4% increase from 2021 and a 22% jump compared to 2017. At least half of those killed were passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists or people in other vehicles, not the violating drivers themselves.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that 27% of drivers admitted to running a red light in the past 30 days, despite 81% saying it’s very dangerous.

Look both ways before proceeding on green lights

Contributing Factors

Traffic safety experts point to several factors driving the increase:

• Post-pandemic changes in driving culture and reduced enforcement
• Artificial urgency created by constant connectivity and technology
• Growing sense of entitlement and “me-first” attitudes
• Cell phone distractions behind the wheel
• Reduced consequences during pandemic when roads were less congested

Ohio’s Response

Ohio allows red light cameras statewide, though Cleveland voters ended their program in 2014. State lawmakers have implemented various restrictions on camera programs, requiring communities to balance safety concerns with regulatory compliance.

Running a red light in Ohio carries escalating penalties:

• First offense: Up to $150 fine (minor misdemeanor)
• Second offense: Up to $250 fine and/or 30 days jail (fourth-degree misdemeanor)
• Third offense: Up to $500 fine and/or 60 days jail (third-degree misdemeanor)

All violations add two points to driving records.

Recent Tragedy

The deadly consequences were illustrated in Cleveland in July when a speeding driver ran a red light on St. Clair Avenue at East 110th Street, killing a 50-year-old woman. The impact caused the victim’s vehicle to roll over and catch fire.

Safety Recommendations

Traffic safety advocates urge drivers to:

• Treat yellow lights as preparation to stop, not speed up
• Look both ways before proceeding on green lights
• Allow extra time for travel to reduce rushing
• Avoid distractions, especially cell phones

For pedestrians and cyclists:

• Wait several seconds after lights change before entering intersections
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
• Stay visible and alert
• Watch for turning traffic

The red light running crisis represents more than traffic violations – it reflects a broader breakdown in road safety culture that demands immediate attention from drivers, law enforcement, and policymakers.