The “Pause Before You Go” Rule: Count to Two, It's the Smart Thing to Do

In Laredo, some of the most dangerous wrecks happen right after the light turns green. Why? Because another driver, sometimes even an 18 wheeler, decides to run the red.

That is why we teach the “Pause Before You Go” rule. Or as we like to say:

👉 Count to two, it's the smart thing to do.

It is a small habit that can make a huge difference, especially for new and teen drivers on our busy roads.

Why Pausing Matters in Laredo

Loop 20 is under construction, traffic is heavy, and 18 wheelers are everywhere. When someone blows through a red light, the risk of a T bone crash skyrockets.

Taking just two seconds at a green light gives you time to:

• Make sure no car or truck is still coming through

• Double check that cross traffic has stopped

• Protect yourself and your passengers from a wreck you did not cause

Count to two, it's the smart thing to do.

Intersections Where It Can Save You

Some intersections in Laredo see more crashes than others. A few to watch closely:

• Loop 20 and Clark Blvd – constant congestion and red light runners

• Loop 20 and McPherson Rd – one of the busiest intersections in town with heavy truck traffic

• Loop 20 and Zapata Hwy (US 83) – complicated turns and highway traffic merging with city drivers

At these spots, the pause rule is more than smart, it is essential.

Teaching Teens the Pause Rule

Parents, here is how to make this a habit for your teen driver:

1. When the light turns green, remind them: “Count to two, it's the smart thing to do.”

2. Look left, right, and left again

3. Once the way is clear, move into the intersection

It is simple, repeatable, and memorable, exactly what new drivers need.

Other Tips for Safer Driving

• Stay alert in construction zones, especially on Loop 20

• Watch 18 wheelers, they need more time to stop

• Keep phones away and eyes on the road

• Never assume other drivers will follow the rules

Share the Rule. Save a Life.

The “Pause Before You Go” rule takes only seconds, but those seconds could save your life.

Please share this with your teen drivers, friends, family, and anyone new to Laredo's roads. The more people who remember:

👉 “Count to two, it's the smart thing to do”

the safer our community will be.

At Tellez Law, we have seen how intersection accidents change lives. That is why we believe in simple, life saving habits like the pause rule. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, call us at (956) 717 8200 or visit tellezlaw.com for help.