Intersections can be dangerous, posing a risk for occupants of a vehicle and pedestrians. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 40 percent of auto accidents occur at intersections, as well as 20 percent of all car accident fatalities.
Intersection Driving Tips
Intersection accidents most commonly occur when someone runs through a stop sign or red light, resulting in sideswipes, T-bone collisions and rear-end crashes. When approaching an intersection, be alert and keep yourself and passengers out of harms way with the following tips.
Approaching an Intersection:
- Don’t make sudden lane changes and always use your signal
- Maintain a safe distance between your car and the car ahead of you
- Watch for any traffic signs that may post restrictions, pedestrian crossings and ongoing construction, as these can limit your actions
- Anticipate the actions of others and be alert to vehicles that may be braking ahead of you
- If turning right, check to the left and right before proceeding. Be aware of any vehicles that may have stopped ahead of you for pedestrians
- Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists in all directions before proceeding to make a turn through an intersection
- Don’t drive distracted. Avoid using your cell phone or adjusting music settings while driving
- Don’t ever tailgate
Crossing an intersection:
- Watch for cross traffic
- Don’t race a yellow light
- Don’t enter an intersection that is backed up, causing you to be sitting in the middle of the intersection
- Don’t make lane changes until you are through the intersection
Intersection accidents can be severe and complex, often relying on eyewitness accounts. If you have been involved in an intersection accident and would like to connect with an experienced attorney in your area, please browse our directory of accident attorneys today.
