Traveling through intersections is likely the most dangerous part of your day. The high number of traffic collisions at intersections has been a primary cause of the largest increase in traffic deaths in nearly half a century, according to the National Safety Council.
Most of us take for granted the intersections on our daily commute. If we think about them at all, it is likely as a hindrance or potential bottleneck. Many motorists even speed up to get through intersections.
But intersections, by definition, are points of traffic conflict. Too often, they are the site of car accidents, pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, and motorcycle accidents.
Intersection Accidents in Mobile
Safety advocates say the primary reason for increasing risks is obvious: distracted driving. Andy Pilgrim, who started the Traffic Safety Education Foundation, said intersections have always had out-sized accident risks.
"Intersections have always been a difficult area for drivers," he said. "If you are distracted while negotiating an intersection, then you have moved the gamble up to much higher stakes."
Common Intersection Accident Risks Include:
- Failure to yield: Going through red lights, speeding, abrupt braking, and turning without using signals.
- Rear-end collisions: Following too closely results in drivers not having enough time to react to sudden stops.
- Lane change: Changing lanes at the last minute can result in a sideswipe collision if another vehicle is in your blind spot.
- T-bone collisions: These broadside collisions are among the most dangerous.
- Bicyclists and pedestrians: Schools, shopping and other attractions are often situated close to intersections. Pedestrians and cyclists present another common risk at intersections and are most often seriously injured in the event of a collision.
- Parking lot accidents: Vehicles entering traffic from parking lots can pose another threat to bicyclists, pedestrians and passing motorists.
Determining Liability for Accidents at Intersections
Consulting an experienced law firm in the immediate aftermath of a serious or fatal intersection accident in Mobile can offer the best chance to protect your rights. Careful documentation of the scene, identification of witnesses and responsible parties, photographs, and other preliminary evidence can go a long way toward proving your claim.
If you have been injured in an auto accident at an intersection, don't hesitate, contact Dean Waite & Associates, LLC for a free consultation.