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What makes an intersection unsafe?

On Behalf of | Nov 28, 2022 | Car Accidents

Intersections are among the most dangerous places on the road for drivers. The convergence of traffic, combined with lots of signage and the potential for distracted drivers means these areas see a lot of accidents.

Human error is enough to make driving a dangerous act. However, when coupled with a flawed intersection design, the end result can be devastating for drivers.

Elements of dangerous intersections

Multiple elements in varying combinations can make intersections dangerous; some are substantially more dangerous than others. For example, the intersection of Route 8 and Airport Road in Penn Township is the site of many crashes resulting in multiple fatalities and severe injuries. The same is true for State Hwy 8 at Branchton Road, where severe accidents date back decades.

Some factors that make intersections so hazardous are:

  • Insufficient or poorly placed signage
  • Low visibility, especially during inclement weather
  • High speed limits
  • Poor lighting

Counties and municipalities sometimes take measures to make intersections safer, but proactive, alert driving can help you avoid a crash at an intersection.

Avoiding accidents at intersections

Understanding the principles of intersection safety is a crucial component of driving. Keep yourself safe by avoiding tailgating, the number one cause of rear-end collisions, and always keep your eyes on the road and your surroundings. Intersections are busy areas with cars coming from every side, but you could prevent a collision by driving defensively, using your turn signal and not trying to run a yellow light.

Proceed with caution when you approach an intersection. If you have complaints about obvious elements on the road that could cause an accident, raising the issue with your city council can be a productive first step. If you’re injured at an intersection, talking to an experienced personal injury firm is crucial.

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