Red lights are more than rules — they’re lifesavers

The numbers are staggering. In Arizona, nearly 20% of deadly crashes involve red-light running, according to AAA. In 2022, Arizona saw almost 5,000 red-light running crashes, resulting in nearly 70 fatalities.”

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In 2003, a driver running a red light caused a crash that resulted in the death of my husband, Mark. In an instant, my world changed, and so did my purpose.

Since that day, I’ve dedicated my life to ensuring no other family has to face the same heartbreak. And I’ve learned this truth: red lights are not just rules, they are lifesavers.

During National Stop on Red Week, Aug. 3 to 9, 2025, I invite everyone to pause and consider the life behind every red light. That pause, just a few seconds, can be the difference between another safe journey home and tragedy. This week is more than a campaign. It’s a movement of Safe Stops. Stronger Communities.

The numbers are staggering. In Arizona, nearly 20% of deadly crashes involve red-light running, according to AAA. In 2022, Arizona saw almost 5,000 red-light running crashes, resulting in nearly 70 fatalities.

Nationwide, red-light running crashes killed more than 1,100 people in the U.S. in 2023. Thousands more were injured, many of them pedestrians, cyclists, or innocent drivers simply passing through an intersection.

But there is hope, and real progress.

The National Coalition for Safer Roads is committed to transforming this week of awareness into a movement of action. We believe that data, advocacy and real-life stories have the power to change behavior and save lives.

We are amplifying these efforts with tools that anyone can use:

• Advocacy toolkit with customizable graphics and messaging for communities
• Real-life testimonies that show how one voice can inspire change
• Social media content that spreads the message

This isn’t just about transportation policy. It’s about people, families and communities. It’s about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Every time you stop on red, you’re protecting lives, including your own.

What can you do?

• Visit org/stop-on-red-week-2025 and download the resources
• Share the message on social media using #StopOnRed2025
• Start conversations with your family, your community and your city leaders
• Be an example behind the wheel, and follow the rules of the road, always stopping on red

We all have the power to make our roads safer, one red light at a time.

Because behind every red light is a life that matters.

Editor’s note: Melissa Wandall is president of the National Coalition for Safer Roads. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.