Most drivers running errands or commuting to work must pass through multiple intersections to reach their destinations. Intersections are relatively dangerous locations even though vehicles often slow down or stop when approaching them.
Vehicles traveling in different directions cross paths at intersections, and seemingly small choices can lead to life-altering collisions. People often take their safety for granted when traveling in a motor vehicle. They become comfortable with their vehicles and their usual routes.
Reviewing personal practices and learning about common mistakes can be a way for drivers to improve their safety on the road. All three of the choices below can potentially contribute to the possibility of a major crash occurring. What decisions may result in preventable car wrecks?
1. Turning left
According to nationwide crash statistics, left turns are responsible for a majority of intersection collisions. Drivers turning left often move more slowly than those turning right.
They also end up exposed to every approaching lane of traffic. Avoiding left-hand turns during times of inclement weather and when traffic is particularly heavy could potentially help people avoid a wreck.
2. Performing a rolling stop
The more familiar people are with their environment, the less likely they are to feel the need to monitor the situation closely. Those who are quite close to their home or place of employment may have a false sense of security when approaching an intersection.
Instead of coming to a full stop and checking their surroundings carefully, they drive through the intersection after simply slowing down. Coming to a complete stop to comply with signage and traffic lights can significantly reduce the likelihood of a wreck.
3. Opting not to use turn signals
Other people approaching an intersection need to know what a driver intends to do to respond appropriately. Turn signals are the only reliable form of communication available for those across the intersection from another vehicle. Roughly half of all drivers fail to use their turn signals consistently, and they may expose themselves and others to significant risk because of that decision.
Understanding how small choices can lead to big risks can help people avoid motor vehicle collisions. Those who do end up involved in crashes may need help holding the driver at fault accountable through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.