Once upon a time, intersections were a chaos of vehicles fighting for the right to pass. Then someone had the bright idea of installing an electrical box that changed color to indicate whose turn it was to proceed and who must stop.

Yet, over 100 years since traffic lights were first invented, some people still struggle to understand them, or simply do not care. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, around two people die every day due to drivers who fail to stop at a red light. While you might think things have improved with time, they have deteriorated with red light deaths rising close to a third between 2009 to 2017.

As a law-abiding Eden driver who does respect the signals, here are some things you can do to reduce the chance you are crashed into by someone who does not.

• Count to three: Sitting there revving your engine, waiting to propel your car forward the second that the light goes to green is a surefire way to get into trouble. You could be hit by a driver who failed to make it through before their light turned red. Once your light is green, allow three seconds and do a double check to make sure the route is clear.
• Reduce your speed around intersections: The faster you are going, the worse a crash will typically be. A high percentage of all crashes happen around junctions, so it makes sense to slow down when approaching and leaving one.
• Allow yourself space: You do not need to come to a halt with your wheels to the stop line. If you allow space between you and the line, it could save you being pushed into oncoming traffic if hit by a car from behind.

If, despite your best efforts, a negligent driver crashes into you at a signaled Eden intersection, seek legal help. You will need to claim compensation for any injuries you suffer and any time off work this requires.