Intersections are an important part of driving and reaching your destination. However, did you know that intersections lead to a high percentage of car accidents? Check out these surprising intersection car accident statistics.
Driving Stats You Need to Know
- Intersection accidents account for over 800 fatalities in Florida each year
- Intersection accidents are responsible for over 94,000 injuries in Florida each year
- The most dangerous intersections in Florida are ones without a light signal
- Running a red light is the most common cause of intersection accidents with lights
Intersection accidents can be caused by a number of factors, including distracted driving, lack of driver training, or driving under the influence. Road intersections require that drivers pay close attention so they know when it’s safe to turn.
How to Stay Safe at Florida Intersections
Avoiding intersections isn’t possible when driving on Florida’s roads. There are things that you can do to stay alert and safe, including:
Being Aware of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of your surroundings when driving. Intersections require careful attention, which means it’s best to avoid using your smartphone or even changing the radio station until you have successfully made it through the intersection. Be sure to look in all directions and make sure vehicles in oncoming traffic come to a stop before accelerating.
Avoiding Running Red Lights
Getting stuck at an intersection crossing can make it feel like you’ll never reach your intended destination on time. But running a red light is extremely dangerous, even if it’s just a few seconds after the light turns. It’s best to come to a stop and wait for the light to turn green again.
Maintaining a Safe Distance
Maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you gives you more time to react to a dangerous situation. If you follow the vehicle in front of you too closely, you may end up rear-ending them if they slam on their brakes. Always keep at least one car distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Always Using Your Signal
Your turn signal lets other drivers know when you intend to slow down and turn. Try to get into the habit of always using your turn signal. This will let drivers reduce their speed and avoid getting too close to you. Turn signals also let pedestrians know what you plan to do. As such, they can wait to cross until it’s safe to do so.
Intersections can be hectic, which leads to them being one of the biggest causes of motor vehicle accidents in Florida. Understanding the risks of intersections and then being aware and alert can help you and your passengers stay safe. If you do find yourself the victim of an intersection accident, consider reaching out to a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer. Car accidents can be expensive, meaning you may incur medical bills and lost wages, and a personal injury claim may help you recover these costs.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Intersection Accidents in Florida
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey represent clients injured because of a car accident in Pompano Beach, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Florida. Call 954-525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2211 Davie Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, as well as offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and Pompano Beach, FL.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.