Generally, intersection accidents are preventable. They tend to result from distracted driving or driver inexperience. Other causes include running a red light or blowing through a stop sign. Distractions such as using a cell phone or changing a CD or music channel can take a driver’s attention from oncoming traffic and result in an accident. It literally takes one second for a serious accident to occur.
Intersection or “t-bone” accidents can cause serious injuries. Back injuries are common as are head injuries. These kinds of accidents may be fatal, especially when a driver is not wearing a seat belt and is thrown from a vehicle. Intersection accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists also tend to be fatal. Learn about Delaware law and left hand turn intersection accidents.
Whether it’s a t-bone accident involving two cars or a pedestrian intersection accident, the single most important factor in preventing any car accident is eliminating all distractions.
Tips to Avoid an Intersection Accident
Drivers may be able to prevent intersection accidents by following these simple tips:
1. Make a full stop and give yourself enough time to look for traffic. Drivers in a rush or drivers who are distracted often do not make full stops prior to entering busy intersections. This is one of the most common causes of an intersection accident. For example, reading a text on a cell phone or even holding a cell phone in a hand can distract a driver.
Drivers turning left must also be sure that the road is clear before entering and exiting the intersection. If an intersection is not maneuvered properly, a driver may be forced to stop or pause in the middle of the intersection. This can cause an oncoming car to strike the front end or tail end of the car in the middle of the intersection.
2. Avoid speeding through the intersection. It is important not to speed through an intersection. This applies to both the driver entering the intersection from a stopped position and the driver who has the right-of-way.
3. Look twice before entering the intersection. Especially for young, inexperienced drivers, it is important to look twice before entering the intersection. This means looking twice in both directions. Depending on the traffic and weather conditions, it may be prudent to look a third time as you enter and exit the intersection.
4. Look out for pedestrians and bicycles. Drivers must be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists, especially at intersections. In busy areas, pedestrians and bicyclists can seem to appear from out of nowhere. Drivers should never attempt to overtake and pass another vehicle in an intersection. Doing so often results in pedestrian accidents.
5. Even if you have a green light, remember that other drivers can and do run red lights or stop signs. An important aspect of defensive driving is looking out for other drivers who are acting carelessly, such as blowing through a stop sign or red traffic light. Being conscious of this fact can prevent an intersection accident.
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- Common Legal Claims Made in Delaware Car & Truck Accident Lawsuits
- Recovering Medical Bills in a Delaware Car or Truck Accident Case
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