Crashes At Intersections

Name: Crashes At Intersection
Brand: Pendergrass Law

Data compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation found that 50% of the combined total of fatal and injury crashes occur around intersections. Traffic innovations have made intersections safer but data suggests that intersections remain hazardous for drivers. Further exploration of driver behavior and environmental factors contributing to Georgia accidents are necessary for prevention.

If you’re living in the Gwinnett County area and have been in a car or motorcycle accident at an intersection, then personal injury experts suggest consulting with a personal injury law professional about your accident and if you’re entitled to compensation.

Georgia Intersection Accident Causes

Intersections are some of the most complex traffic situations that travelers face each day because of their design. How motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians approach and cross intersections in addition to unsafe driving behavior could lead to an accident at an intersection. Accidents often occur at intersections because two or more crossing roads encourage travelers to make turns or cross over the road which increases the potential of a crash.

Left-hand turns can be particularly dangerous and cause up to 61% of the accidents that take place at an intersection. Turning left across oncoming traffic is one of the most dangerous driving maneuvers, and if done so recklessly could lead to an accident. Poor driving behavior often contributes to accidents and here are some of the most common causes of Georgia intersection crashes:

Texting while driving or other distracted driving behaviors
Speeding or driving recklessly above the speed limit
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Falling asleep behind the wheel of your vehicle

Gwinnett County Intersection Accidents

In Gwinnett County, Georgia in 2018, there were 62 traffic fatalities and at least 30 of them happened at an intersection. Consider that 34 of those 62 fatalities involved speeding drivers and those under the influence of drugs and alcohol, some of the leading factors contributing to accidents at intersections. It’s important to practice safety when driving at or around an intersection, and if you’re involved in an accident to seek medical attention, and contact a professional Gwinett County personal injury attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.

Improving Intersection Safety

The following tips could help you maneuver through intersections more safely, protect your property, and avoid intersection accidents:

Using Safe Traffic Light Protocol

Traffic lights were installed at intersections to make them safer for automobiles, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and pedestrians. Instead of speeding through an intersection to beat an oncoming red light, it’s best to slow down when lights turn yellow and prepare for stopping. It’s also important for pedestrians to adhere to their crosswalk light system as well to avoid walking into oncoming traffic. Adhering to the safety light protocols can help improve intersection safety.

Reducing Distractions

Inattention is one of the leading causes of accidents amongst those ages 25-54. Getting the proper amount of rest, only driving when you’re physically well and not under the influence of prescription drugs, and keeping your line of sight clear and free of distractions can help prevent accidents from transpiring. Talking on the phone or texting while driving is illegal in most states therefore drivers need to avoid their phones while driving for safety purposes and so that they can operate their vehicle following the law. Grooming before leaving home and eating without distractions have also helped to avoid accidents caused by distracted driving.

Properly Maintain Your Vehicle

Let’s say you’re operating your motorcycle and approach an intersection and are prepared to make a left turn but your rear lights aren’t functioning properly. If this is the case, then you’ll be unable to signal other drivers which could lead to a motorcycle accident. Properly maintaining your vehicle’s equipment can make sure that you’re signaling other drivers and traveling safely. When you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, even if you’re partially at fault, it’s essential to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer because you still could be entitled to compensation.

Georgia Intersection Safety and Protection

Practicing safe driving practices are essential to avoiding intersection accidents. It’s up to travelers to practice vigilance and safety. If you’ve been involved in an intersection crash and need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Gwinnett County, then have a free consultation with The Pendergrass Law Firm right away.