Intersections are considered one of the most dangerous places on the road. They represent a place where many traffic streams come together, and each driver must decide to yield, stop, or proceed, all the while ensuring they do so safely. Although signals and signs regulate traffic, accidents remain a leading cause of injuries and fatalities.
As a unique type of driving zone, intersections often create opportunities for collisions due to poor judgment, distractions, and irresponsible behavior. A big part of driving in intersections is understanding the danger you face as a driver. Accidents are generally the result of a combination of human error and factors present in the environment. Victims should be willing to take the assistance of the best intersection accident lawyer in Atlanta to get justice.
Many crashes occur from not yielding, running a red light, misjudging what others will do, or not noticing pedestrians/cyclists. Weather, traffic conditions, and visibility also contribute to a higher chance of collision. Therefore, given the hazards, more people should adopt proactive safety and promote safer driving in order to minimize risk. Here are some tips for preventing intersection collisions.
Be Alert at All Times
Distraction is one of the most common reasons behind intersection accidents. Not focusing on the road even for a few seconds can lead to a horrible accident. Distracted driving, like texting, changing the radio, or eating, can affect an individual’s ability to react to an oncoming car in time to avoid the collision. Staying focused and scanning the intersection carefully before entering it can minimize the possibilities of accidents. Other types of defensive-driving techniques, such as anticipating other drivers’ actions, can also help improve safety when navigating an intersection.
Be Aware of Right-of-Way Rules
Drivers often make mistakes at intersections because they are unsure of who has the right-of-way. Traffic signals and signs can assist with the rules but sometimes, it requires judgment and patience. A good example of those circumstances would be when a vehicle arrives at a stop sign at the same time as another vehicle at a four-way stop. The rule is that the car that arrives first gets to go first. At an uncontrolled intersection, the driver to the right generally has the right of way. Mistakes are easy to make, and misreading these regulations can lead to confusion and ultimately a crash.
Taking the time to understand and utilize the rules will assist with safely navigating intersections. However, if you do end up in a collision and it is not your fault, work with reputed Atlanta Accident Attorneys to get fair compensation.
Use Turn Signals
Many intersection accidents happen because drivers don’t indicate their intentions. Using turn signals when making a turn or changing lanes assists other drivers in predicting your next action. Sudden turns, which are not indicated, can often lead to confusion for the other driver and significant consequences if the two collide. Using signals beforehand provides time for people to adjust their speed or position based on your action. If you got into a crash because the other driver did not use a turn signal, then you should work with an intersection accident lawyer in Atlanta and mention this to increase the chances of a favorable outcome in your case.
Do Not Think that Other Drivers Will Stop
Even if you have the legal right of way, it is never safe to make the assumption that other drivers are going to follow the rules. Often, accidents happen when one person assumes that the other one is going to yield or stop at a red light, when in fact, the driver has proceeded without looking. A defensive individual will think of the possible mistakes by others and will be ready to take evasive action if necessary.
When drivers observe an indicator of reckless driving, such as speeding or erratic lane changes, they can react in time and avoid an accident. In case there is an accident, you will need the assistance of an intersection accident lawyer in Atlanta to collect evidence and prove your claim.
Conclusion
Avoiding intersection accidents requires caution, awareness, and following traffic laws. Being on the lookout for the unforeseen behavior of the other road users will help. By adopting the suggestions mentioned above, drivers can help improve safety at intersections and reduce the risk of an avoidable accident.
If you’ve suffered an injury in an intersection accident, refrain from going through the legal process alone. The experienced attorneys at Karma Injury Law are ready to fight for your rights and compensation. We will make it easier for you to achieve a desired outcome by using our expertise.
