In road safety, intersections emerge as critical zones, and understanding the leading cause of intersection accidents is paramount. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a startling 46% of intersection accidents occur due to drivers failing to notice or intentionally disobeying traffic signals. This statistic underscores the importance of addressing the leading causes of intersection accidents to enhance road safety.
In this blog, we delve into the various factors contributing to these accidents, shedding light on their dangers and their implications for local authorities and legal professionals specializing in injury and wrongful death cases.
10 Leading Causes of Intersection Accidents
- Disobeying Traffic Signals
According to the NHTSA, the leading cause of intersection accidents is drivers failing to notice and obey traffic signals. Shockingly, up to 46 percent of intersection accidents occur because a driver accidentally disobeys a traffic signal. This includes running a red light or proceeding through an intersection when the light is yellow. Intentional disregard for red lights accounts for 36 percent of intersection accidents.
- Failing to Stop at a Red Light/Stop Sign
When drivers neglect to stop at a red light or stop sign, they enter the direct path of oncoming traffic, often resulting in severe injuries. Oncoming drivers, unable to react quickly enough, may collide with the violating vehicle.
- Trying to Make It Through a Yellow Light
Some drivers view a yellow light as an opportunity to accelerate rather than slow down. Attempting to make it through a yellow light increases the likelihood of intersection crashes, as it often leads to misjudgments and collisions.
- Prohibited Turns
Ignoring restrictions on right turns at intersections poses a significant danger. When prohibited, right turns can lead to crashes, demonstrating the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.
- Failing to Yield the Right of Way
Even in the absence of a traffic signal, right-of-way rules still apply. Drivers who fail to yield the right of way may enter an intersection with oncoming traffic, resulting in collisions.
- Being Rear-Ended and Pushed Into Traffic
A common scenario involves a stopped vehicle at an intersection being rear-ended, initiating a chain reaction that can lead to collisions with oncoming traffic.
- Not Adjusting for Weather or Road Conditions
Weather conditions can significantly impact visibility and road traction. Failure to adjust driving behavior accordingly may result in an inability to navigate intersections safely.
- Obstructed Views
Some intersections lack clear views, making it challenging for drivers to assess oncoming traffic. Limited visibility increases the risk of collisions.
- Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, like texting, is a pervasive issue, even at intersections. Diverting attention from the road increases the likelihood of errors that can lead to intersection crashes.
- Defective equipment
Equipment malfunctions, rather than driving errors, can sometimes be the catalyst for an intersection crash. A vehicle may experience issues with defective equipment, whether due to maintenance lapses or inherent defects within the vehicle. These equipment-related problems can unexpectedly manifest and lead to collisions, broadening the spectrum of potential causes for intersection accidents beyond mere driver mistakes.
Who Is At Fault In An Intersection Accident?
Determining fault in an intersection accident is based on identifying the party who violates traffic laws. Whether running a red or yellow light, ignoring stop signs, or failing to yield when required, the person responsible for the driving error is deemed at fault. Even proceeding through a yellow light when the driver could have stopped is sufficient to assign fault in an intersection accident.
Contact Our Florida Car Accident Lawyers If You Have Been In An Intersection Crash
Now that you understand the leading cause of intersection accidents, seeking legal guidance is imperative if you’ve been involved in such an incident. Contacting Pacin Levine, P.A. at (305) 760-9085 or 1-800-24-7-CRASH (2727) ensures a thorough assessment of your situation. Our experienced car accident lawyers can provide the support and representation needed to navigate the complexities of intersection accident cases, helping you secure the compensation you deserve. This understanding empowers you to be a safer and more responsible driver on the road, and legal assistance ensures your rights are protected in the aftermath of an intersection crash.
