Intersections are considered to be the most complicated driving situation a motorist faces on a daily basis. This is especially true during rush hour, when there is a high traffic volume. Intersections are responsible for 40 percent of all traffic accidents, with 20 percent of these resulting in fatality.
Intersections can come in many different designs. Some may be two-way intersections, while others may be four-way or even six-way configurations, complicating things further. With all these lanes involved, there’s sure to be some confusion among motorists.
Even when stop signs and stoplights are in place, motorists, bicycles and pedestrians are all crossing the road at different times, and if someone is not paying attention, an accident can occur. Even experienced drivers can become accident victims. By staying alert and following traffic signals, you can get to your destination accident-free.
Types of Intersection Crashes
There are several types of crashes that can occur at an intersection:
- Collisions between oncoming vehicles
- Rear-end accidents
- Sideswipe collisions
- Side-impact crashes
- Failing to yield to pedestrians and cyclists
These accidents often occur because drivers are not paying attention. They may also be speeding, running red lights, tailgating or unable to see due to low visibility. They may also be unable to see other vehicles due to darkness and a lack of headlights.
Tips for Intersection Safety
Don’t become a statistic. Follow the rules below to avoid an intersection accident.
- Come to a complete stop. When coming to a stop sign, stop completely and look for traffic in all directions. Make sure the road is clear before proceeding.
- Share the road with others. Pedestrians almost always have the right of way, so look for people crossing the road and yield to them.
- Look before crossing. Even if you have the right of way, other vehicles may be driving through the intersection on a red light. Don’t cross until the road is clear.
- Don’t change lanes in an intersection. Vehicles from cross streets may be turning into your lane. Avoid changing lanes so you don’t side-swipe other vehicles. Stay in your lane until you get across the intersection.
- Be extra cautious when traffic lights are not working. This is an uncontrolled intersection, which makes it even more dangerous. Even when you have the right of way, try to predict the actions of other drivers. Inexperienced drivers may be unsure what to do in this situation.
Dangerous Intersections in Austin, Texas
Austin is home to many dangerous intersections. Many serious accidents happen at the five intersections listed below:
- Manchaca Road and West Slaughter Lane
- Rundberg Lane and Lamar Boulevard
- Parmer Lane and Lamar Boulevard
- U.S. 183 Service Road and Cameron Road
- I-35 Southbound Service Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Contact an Austin, Texas Personal Injury Lawyer
Intersections can be tricky, leading to serious accidents if drivers aren’t paying attention. Even if you are familiar with the intersection, it’s important to stay alert while driving.
Don’t handle a car accident on your own. Get the legal help you need by contacting the Austin, Texas personal injury attorneys at DJC Law. Contact us today at (512) 220-1800 to schedule your free consultation.
