Most Dangerous Types of Intersections

By on March 8th, 2017

Although many drivers are more comfortable on side streets and back roads than our nation’s highway system, the latter is actually far safer. There are a number of factors that add to the heightened safety, but much of it can be attributed to the strict one-way traffic and the lack of intersections on modern freeways and interstates. Even the highways that do feature traffic junctions usually take steps to avoid the hazard commonly associated with the most dangerous types of intersections across the U.S. As personal injury lawyers we see a number of cases caused by simple intersection confusion.

dangerous US intersection types

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1. Flashing or Blinking Lights

Intersections that feature a flashing or blinking traffic light, while quite common, tend to be perplexing for some drivers. Whether the light flashes on a permanent basis, within a certain timeframe or as a result of a malfunction, the result is often the same: mass confusion.

To the properly educated driver, however, these intersections can be handled safely and routinely whenever they’re encountered.

  • Flashing red lights are simply treated the same as stop signs.
  • Lights that are set to permanently flash yellow do not require a full stop. Instead, proceed through these intersections at a slow speed and with caution.
  • Yellow lights that are flashing as a result of a malfunction or emergency should be treated the same as four-way stops.

 

2. Service/Frontage Roads

Frontage roads, sometimes referred to as service, access or feeder roads, are typically used as a buffer zone between high-speed freeways and local neighborhoods. They are more common in some states than others, but they are still considered one of the most dangerous types of intersections in use today.

Keep in mind that frontage roads are not meant for through traffic. Using them only as needed, either to access a local business or property, is the best way to ensure safety on your behalf. Many cities and counties now maintain strict standards and policies regarding the construction and implementation of frontage roads, which also helps keep traffic incidents at a minimum.

3. Traffic Roundabouts

When used correctly, traffic roundabouts can have a significant impact on the overall traffic flow in and around a city. Unfortunately, the sheer confusion surrounding their implementation in the U.S. has made them one of the most dangerous types of intersections we’ve seen thus far.

According to some sources, roundabouts are able to reduce traffic accidents that result in serious injury or fatality by as much as 82 percent in some cases. They can even cut pedestrian-related collisions in these areas by as much as 40 percent.

However, drivers have to use them correctly. By yielding before entering the intersection, following the standard flow of traffic in a counterclockwise direction, maintaining the posted speed limit and completing your turns as appropriate, you too can benefit from the heightened safety of the modern traffic roundabout.

4. High-Speed Traffic

Residential roads that intersect with streets featuring higher speed limits also pose serious hazards for motorists. The danger is compounded when driving on steep grades or major curves. Such conditions require constant attention on behalf of every driver and the ability to react quickly if needed.

If you are driving, make sure to obey the posted speed limit at all times. Remember that speed changes occur at the point of the sign itself, as if there was an invisible line across the roadway. This caveat is meant to increase the safety in areas where such transitions occur.

States can implement a number of solutions to minimize the danger of high-speed intersections. Constructing dedicated left-turn lanes, rumble strips and warning signs have all been recommended, and are being used, across the nation.

5. Poor Line-of-Sight

Our list of the most dangerous types of intersections concludes with those that offer a poor line-of-sight for one or more of the drivers involved. This could be a result of any number of factors, including abrupt grades and sharp curves, the local landscape, or roadside signage and decorations. In any event, it’s literally an accident waiting to happen.

When you encounter such an intersection, take your time. Come to a complete stop whether you are faced with a stop sign or not, because it’s better to be safe than sorry in this situation. Make sure to look for oncoming traffic in both directions, and then do it again. Once you’re confident the road is clear, begin to ease out slowly. The trick is to match the posted speed as quickly as possible after completing your turn, thus avoiding the potential for a rear-end collision.

Ensuring the Safety of You and Your Passengers

As a driver, the safety of yourself and your passengers is the topmost priority. You may be in a rush to make it to work on time or make your doctor’s appointment, but taking a few minutes to ensure caution — especially at intersections — could very well save your life.

Don’t forget to share with your friends, family and neighbors to keep them safe on the roads.