See the Light and Live

Here’s one solution to the danger posed by drivers who run red lights: Vigorously ticket violators and make them pay the steep fines the law now permits.

In Los Angeles alone last year, 37 people were killed and more than 8,000 were injured in crashes caused by cars racing through stoplights. The violators probably had no lack of explanations: They were late, they were distracted, they just wanted to get home after a long day. Those lame justifications equate with lost lives and crippling injuries.

The Automobile Club of Southern California compiled the data from California Highway Patrol statistics. It plans to continue this in future years so comparisons can be made.

The Auto Club also identified the Los Angeles intersections with the highest numbers of accidents caused by red-light runners. Burbank Boulevard and Colfax Avenue in North Hollywood was the lamentable winner, with 11 accidents reported last year. Santa Monica and Westwood boulevards in Westwood was a close second with nine.

Ticketing red-light runners needs to become a higher priority for local police departments. A state law that took effect in January raised the cost of a ticket for running a red light from $104 to $270, which should make an impression. The Department of Motor Vehicles may withhold the vehicle registration of any owner who refuses to pay the fine. At least one local city, Beverly Hills, has installed cameras at troublesome intersections to photograph red-light runners, who are then ticketed by mail. The Los Angeles Police Department may follow suit.

Today ends National Stop on Red Week, as declared by the Federal Highway Administration, but its wise message sticks: Stop and save lives. Otherwise, prepare to pay a stiff fine or suffer consequences infinitely worse.