Southern Utah’s Top Traffic Accident Trends Heading Into Spring

Much like fashion, traffic accidents tend to have a trend at certain times of the year. I spoke with Public Information Officer Tiffany Mitchell of the St. George Police Department to learn more about the traffic trends of Southern Utah heading into spring. 

Officer Mitchell says the top three trends of the season so far have to do with traffic lights and their relationship with drivers.  

Mitchell said, “We’re seeing an increase in red light runners. As our population grows, you’re no longer able to get through the first traffic light that you sit through, and so we have people being a little impatient or maybe entitled since they’ve sat at the light at least once. We’re seeing a lot of that.” 

Speed is another trend which is causing some serious issues on Southern Utah roadways. Officer Mitchell said speeding is one of the largest factors leading to the more serious crashes recently seen in Southern Utah. 

Paired with impatience when making a left-hand turn at an intersection, these trends can lead to egregious consequences. 

Mitchell said, “We’re still struggling with left turns and failure to yield on making those left turns, especially at a yellow blinking arrow. So, those are probably the top three [trends] we’re seeing right now.” 

Of course, the leading cause of traffic accidents in Southern Utah is following to close behind another vehicle, often known as tailgating. 

You may have noticed an underlying theme with all of these traffic issues. A lack of patience.  

These accidents are 100% preventable as long as drivers stay in their own lane and respect the space of everyone around them. Even if you have to get to work in a timely fashion, you’re not going to get there much faster if you disobey every traffic law.  

As Officer Mitchell mentioned, the population of Washington County continues to grow, and that means more cars on the roads. It’s best to exercise patience so that you can return home to your family and friends in one piece.