Traffic intersections are some of the most dangerous areas on the road. Accidents at intersections often result in serious injuries or fatalities because of the multiple directions of traffic and the potential for high-speed impacts.
Understanding the common factors that lead to these accidents can help you avoid them and stay that much safer.
Distracted driving
Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone or adjusting their GPS can easily miss a red light or fail to yield. In a busy intersection, even a brief distraction can lead to a collision. To avoid this, drivers must remain focused on the road and be aware of their surroundings even when at a complete stop.
Running red lights
Drivers might make the snap decision to rush through an intersection when the light turns yellow, not realizing that other vehicles are preparing to enter from the opposite direction. This often leads to side-impact collisions, which are particularly dangerous. It is important to slow down when approaching a yellow light and stop completely at red lights.
Neglecting to yield
Some drivers might not understand the right-of-way rules, especially at four-way stops. This confusion can lead to crashes when two vehicles attempt to go through the intersection at the same time. To prevent this, drivers must follow traffic signals carefully and give the right-of-way when required.
Failing to notice pedestrians
Pedestrians and cyclists add another layer of complexity to intersections. Drivers must watch for people crossing the road or biking through the intersection. Failing to check for pedestrians can lead to serious accidents, so drivers should always look both ways before proceeding.
The Federal Highway Administration reports that more than 50 percent of the combined total of fatal and injury crashes occur at or near intersections. While this statistic partially comes about due to the density of traffic at major intersections, it also illustrates the tendency of drivers to behave recklessly at these locations. Each driver who observes proper safety measures can help reduce the risk of accidents at intersections.