When you are driving, it can be helpful to know when you are facing the highest level of inherent risk. According to many reports, this risk increases every time you reach an intersection. These are some of the most dangerous places to operate a vehicle.
For example, government statistics indicate that roughly a quarter of all fatal accidents occur at intersections. At the same time, intersections account for roughly half of all accidents that lead to injuries.
It is important to note that part of the increased danger is that intersections are also a common location for pedestrian accidents. A pedestrian may have the right of way due to a walk signal in a crosswalk, for example, while a driver turning right also has a green light. If that driver fails to yield the right of way, it can lead to a severe accident.
How can you stay safe?
One of the main ways to avoid accidents is to remain alert and focused every time you go through an intersection. Try to anticipate mistakes by other drivers around you, such as someone who may go out of turn at a four-way stop or run a red light in an attempt to beat a yellow signal.
You cannot always eliminate the inherent risk. Traffic paths cross at intersections, so there is naturally a greater danger of a collision. But by driving defensively, you may be able to recognize a dangerous situation before it happens and protect yourself.
If you are injured in an accident caused by another driver at an intersection, it is important to understand how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and related costs.