There are many areas on our roadways where accidents are more prone to happen. For instance, accidents on our highways at top speeds are more prevalent than an accident that takes place on a back road. Intersections are one other place where the stakes are high, as vehicles make turns in front of others and drivers are urged to follow the laws of red lights and stop signs. According to statistics, approximately 50% of all motor vehicle accidents happen at intersections, putting them near the top, if not at the very top, of the list for most prevalent areas for serious crashes.
By understanding the various types of accidents that happen in our intersections and also how we can avoid these accidents on our roads, we can make our roads a safer place for everybody who utilizes them. No section of roadway should be dangerous when drivers work to protect themselves and others by paying attention to the roads.
Causes of Intersection Accidents
Typically, intersection accidents occur at the hands of two drivers, but more vehicle drivers could become involved in these crashes based on the circumstances leading up to the crash. Here are just a few of the most common ways that these accidents occur on our roadways:
Rear-End: Rear-end accidents almost always occur when one driver is following another too closely and runs into the back of them. At intersections, this most commonly happens when one driver comes to a sudden stop and the other is unable to do so in the amount of time it will take.
Side-Impact: If one driver runs a red light or stop sign without thinking twice, they could run into the side of another vehicle, causing one of these serious collisions that can cause severe results to a driver or passenger.
Head-On: When a driver turns in front of oncoming traffic when they do not have the right of way or do not have enough time to complete their turn, a head-on collision could easily occur.
Pileups: These accidents happen when multiple vehicles collide into each other.
Side-Swipe: If a driver does not check their mirrors and blind spots for bicyclists, motorcyclists, and other motor vehicle drivers, they could become involved in a side-swipe accident while making a turn.
Ways to Avoid Accidents at Intersections
Of course, preventing intersection accidents is possible when we work together. Here are just a few ways that we can work to prevent the number of intersection accidents that cause injuries and take lives every year:
- Always drive defensively, so that you can anticipate a problem before it wreaks havoc on your life.
- When you approach an intersection, always pay attention and think about what another driver might do, especially when they could possibly collide with your vehicle.
- If you are engaging in distracted driving, stop immediately. This is especially imperative in situations where you must pay close attention to the roads, such as at an intersection.
- Never speed at an intersection. You might not be able to stop when it is necessary.
- Give right-of-way to emergency vehicles.
- Understand the many rules of the road that apply to intersections, in order for you to be prepared for anything.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident at an intersection, you might have questions about your case and your rights to recovery. Liability might not always be so certain in one of these accidents, which is why a well-versed personal injury attorney might be your beacon of hope as you work toward results for your damages. At Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner, we understand how overwhelming it can be to be involved in a serious car accident and we would like to extend a helping hand. Please contact us at (304) 713-2014 to find out what we can do for you.
