Intersections are dangerous because of the vehicles moving in opposing directions. Every decision could increase the risk of a crash.
Drivers should monitor their circumstances carefully every time they approach an intersection. Regardless of whether there are stop signs or traffic lights present, drivers should comply with the law while also monitoring others.
Unfortunately, certain driving habits may increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle collision. What traffic habits at intersections contribute to collision risk?
1. Forgetting to use turn signals
Turn signals help motorists communicate with others in traffic. They ensure that approaching vehicles are aware of their intentions.
Drivers who don’t use turn signals may create dangerous traffic conditions because others do not know their intentions. They also break state law, which mandates communication when turning or merging.
2. Performing rolling stops
Drivers should generally bring their vehicles to a complete stop at every intersection unless they have the right-of-way. Even if they do not notice any other vehicles approaching, they still have to stop to comply with the law. Rolling stops increase the risk of preventable collisions, especially crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists.
3. Refusing to yield
At four-way stops, two or more drivers may approach the intersection at the same time. Those drivers have to appropriately yield to one another. Unfortunately, drivers may feel a sense of urgency that interferes with their compliance with right-of-way rules and other critical safety standards.
Individuals affected by intersection collisions may have major expenses. Especially if liability insurance isn’t enough to cover the losses, the people affected by the crash may need to take legal action. Holding another driver accountable for their unsafe conduct can lead to compensation after a preventable car crash at an intersection.
