How often does poor street lighting lead to auto accidents?

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It may not come as a surprise to many that driving outside of daylight hours is more dangerous as natural light from the sun does not illuminate the roadway. When natural light is nonexistent, motorists rely on streetlights to make the roadway and traffic signs visible. Unfortunately, when streetlights are not placed correctly or they do not function properly serious accidents and injuries are more likely to occur. Poorly lit roadways pose a serious threat to motorists as they are unable to detect potential hazards and navigate the roads as safe as they would in the daylight. Street lighting plays a critical role in preventing car accidents. If you have been injured in a car accident due to poor lighting, contact a seasoned Morris County Car Accident Attorney who can help you seek reasonable compensation for your damages. In addition, continue to follow along to learn how streetlights help reduce car accidents.

Why is street lighting critical on roadways?

Streetlights can reduce car accidents in many different ways. For instance, streetlights make potential hazards more visible to motorists. When there is inadequate lighting, motorists’ visual capabilities are often hindered or diminished. This means they cannot see potential roadway hazards such as animals or stalled vehicles on the side of the road. When this is the case, motorists do not have sufficient time to react. Studies have shown that motorists need at least 3 seconds to recognize a hazard and respond safely. When the roadway does not have sufficient lighting, motorists will not have enough time to take preventative steps to avoid a collision. 

Moreover, streetlights play a critical role in keeping pedestrians and cyclists safe on the road. When the roadway is not illuminated by streetlights it makes it challenging for motorists to detect crosswalks. Crosswalks are strategically placed to allow pedestrians to cross the street safely. Motorists are legally required to yield the right of way to pedestrians. However, if a motorist cannot see a crosswalk, they will not yield the right of way. This can cause serious pedestrian accidents to occur. When it is dark out, regardless of whether pedestrians or cyclists have reflective gear on, motorists will not be able to detect them on the road. If the roadway is illuminated by streetlights, motorists will be able to detect crosswalks which helps keep pedestrians and cyclists safe. 

Furthermore, streetlights help drivers navigate the roads safely. While driving motorists are legally required to abide by the rules of the road. This means they must adhere to traffic signs. For instance, motorists must follow the speed limit. If a motorist cannot see a speed limit sign, they may travel at an unsafe speed which can lead to a collision. Additionally, if motorists are unable to see a stop or yield sign, they will not stop when required, which can result in a collision. Ultimately, street lighting plays a significant role in preventing car accidents as it helps motorists detect potential hazards and navigate the road safely. 

If you have been injured in a car accident due to a lack of street lighting, it is in your best interest to hire a trusted Morris County car accident attorney. Our firm will help you hold negligent parties accountable.

 

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