Most drivers pass through dozens of intersections daily without really considering the risk. Every intersection is an opportunity for a crash. While there are traffic rules that govern the movement of vehicles at intersections, collisions at intersections are quite common. In 2022, there were 42,514 reported traffic fatalities nationwide, and 12,036 of those tragedies took place at intersections.
Motorists who understand why intersections are dangerous can take appropriate steps to protect themselves as they drive and can empower themselves to hold others accountable for causing preventable collisions. What are some of the top causes of intersection crashes?
1. Inadequate surveillance
The more comfortable drivers are at a particular location, the less likely they may be to carefully check their surroundings. Drivers at intersections near their homes or workplaces may fail to properly watch for approaching traffic or even pedestrians. They could end up causing crashes due to traffic issues they did not notice in time.
2. Right-of-way issues
Some drivers no longer remember the rules that govern the right of way at an intersection. Others are aware that they should yield to approaching traffic but choose not to. They may assume that they can accelerate rapidly enough to maneuver in a manner that prevents a collision from occurring. The failure to yield to others as necessary in traffic can create truly dangerous situations. Even drivers who follow the law can end up injured in crashes caused by drivers who do not yield the right of way when they should.
3. Communication issues
The vehicles approaching intersections could complete multiple different maneuvers. A driver may simply need to continue on the same street, or they may plan to turn off onto the intersecting road. Especially in cases where drivers intend to turn left, which leaves them exposed to all approaching lanes of traffic, they need to communicate their intentions to others. Drivers should activate their turn signals before they stop at an intersection or begin turning. The failure to indicate a planned turn to other motorists can lead to other drivers improperly judging the situation and conducting unsafe maneuvers that cause collisions.
Choices made in a fraction of a second at an intersection can have profound implications for a motorist and the other people sharing the road with them. Holding a driver accountable for causing a preventable intersection crash may involve a lawsuit or an insurance claim. Drivers who recognize unsafe and illegal behavior are in a better position to hold others accountable for driving habits that cause motor vehicle collisions.