Car accidents can happen anywhere, from busy parking lots during the day to lonely highways at night. It’s also important to be alert when approaching intersections. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 50% of all car accidents involving injuries happen around intersections. What is the leading cause of intersection accidents, and why are these areas so dangerous?
What Is the Leading Cause of Intersection Accidents in Arizona?
The main reason for traffic accidents at intersections in Arizona is driver error. In the United States, 98% of all accidents involve some type of mistake on the part of drivers or passengers. Arizona is no exception to the rule.
Notably, half of all car crashes in Maricopa County don’t involve breaking any driving laws. It’s true that not following traffic signals causes around 10% of accidents; however, many crashes happen simply because drivers didn’t see the danger or respond quickly enough to avoid the other vehicle.
What Types of Car Accidents Happen at Intersections?
Intersections are especially risky areas for vehicle crashes because of the large number of other drivers around you. Additionally, cars are moving from all directions. The statistics for these accidents in Arizona may surprise you:
- Rear-end crashes (40%): Vehicles can hit you from behind if you stop suddenly or change lanes unexpectedly near an intersection.
- Left turn collisions (17%): Left turns expose your car to drivers of all lanes, so you need to be especially alert.
- Sideswipe accidents (17%): Vehicles attempting to pass you may get too close while you wait to turn.
- Side or angle impacts (15%): If a driver runs a red light, they may crash into the side of your vehicle while you’re still crossing the intersection.
You may assume that a major cause of intersection accidents is wet roads, but the great majority of crashes in Arizona happen on dry roads, with clear skies and bright daylight.
Why Do So Many Car Accidents Happen at Intersections?
Across the country and in Maricopa County, bad driving habits can cause many accidents. Be aware of the following dangers:
- Speeding: When drivers exceed the speed limit, they may not react in time when a stoplight changes or a car changes lanes.
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, drinking or falling asleep cause many accidents each year.
- Aggressive driving: Following other vehicles too closely or accelerating too quickly may cause a crash.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol, recreational drugs and some prescription drugs affect reaction times significantly.
To avoid these hazards, you often need to take preventative action. Be attentive to other drivers — even when pulling out of your driveway — so you can react ASAP if they make a mistake.
The Importance of Knowing What Is the Leading Cause of Intersection Accidents
Thinking about the possibility of a car accident isn’t pleasant. Unfortunately, traffic accidents in Mesa, Chandler and Glendale are frequent. Accepting that an accident may happen whenever you’re on the road can help you stay alert, careful and safe.
Do you remember what the leading cause of intersection accidents is? Driver error is something you can prevent. At MDK Law Group, we hope you never have to experience a crash, but we’re by your side to help if you do. Contact us to know what steps to take.