Intersection Accident Prevention

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

For a number of reasons, car accidents at intersections are extremely common, especially when it comes to motorist-to-pedestrian impact. On the surface, the primary reason for this is simple: Intersections present an endless potential for accident and injury, thanks to ongoing, conflicting activities.These collision hot spots are where two or more highways meet, pedestrian traffic is abundant, and motorists must make turns. All of these factors combined create the perfect opportunity for hazardous incidents to occur at these bustling junctions.

Accident Reduction

Past reports from the National Highway Traffic Administration have revealed that intersection-related crashes account for an overwhelming number of injuries and deaths throughout the United States. Out of over 5 million car crashes that occurred in the year 2008 alone, around 40 percent of them were due to intersection-related incidents. While that may not sound like a lot in the grand scheme of things, it certainly points to a problematic trend across the nation, making it even more apparent that preventing collisions at intersections is something every driver must take seriously.

Protecting Yourself

Reducing your chances of being involved in a crash at an intersection begins with basic awareness behind the wheel and solid defensive driving techniques. Here are three ways you can increase your safety when you approach those traffic lights:

1. Avoid illegal maneuvers - When turning at traffic signals or stop signs, many drivers make the mistake of turning illegally, which commonly causes unnecessary collision. Do not make risky or reckless maneuvers at intersections; be sure to obey the posted signage, speed limits, and light signals. This is a surefire way to protect yourself - and surrounding pedestrians - from needless injury.

2. Be on the lookout for distracted drivers - In general, driver inattention is one of the biggest causes of accident and injury on the roadways. When a driver is distracted at a busy, ever-changing intersection, their inattention can be even more deadly. Keep your eyes peeled for distracted drivers as you approach traffic signals. If you spot speeding, swerving, or erratic driving behaviors, distance yourself from the other vehicle as quickly as possible.

3. Do not tailgate. - Following another driver too closely is another common cause for collision at intersections. Some drivers brake abruptly as lights turn from yellow to red, while others make last-minute decisions to turn or shift lanes, making tailgating behaviors dangerous for everyone involved. Watch your speed, allow enough distance between you and surrounding vehicles, and always stay alert to what is happening ahead of you as you grow closer to the signal.

The moment you find yourself in an intersection-related crash, you need to speak with an informed Lake County car accident attorney who can explain your rights, address your questions and concerns, and fight for you in a court of law. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP today at 847-662-3303 for a personal consultation.

Sources:

http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/intersection/

https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/811366