Understanding Intersection Car Crashes in Maryland

While specifically designed to help traffic move smoothly and give other road users, like cyclists and pedestrians the opportunity to cross safely, intersections still end up being one of the most dangerous places for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. This is simply because a car crash is a lot more likely to occur in any location where multiple people are moving in different directions. Even a small mistake on one person’s part could be enough to initiate a chain reaction of events leading to a car wreck. In fact, as many as one-quarter of all fatal traffic accidents and half of all traffic injuries in the U.S. occur in intersections.

Drivers are often inpatient, so it is not uncommon for someone who feels like they have been waiting at an intersection to look outside of the vehicle, get on their phone, or simply stop paying attention. In other cases, a motorist may fail to slow or stop at an intersection at all, rushing to beat a traffic light. Both scenarios are extremely dangerous, as constant observation is a critical part of safe driving, especially when someone is at an intersection and potentially facing traffic from three different directions. Failing to monitor one’s surroundings, inadequate surveillance, and general inattention are some of the most common contributors to intersection accidents in the U.S. When combined with misjudgments of speed or space, or illegal maneuverings, failing to pay attention can have devastating consequences at intersections.

What Makes Intersection Car Accidents So Dangerous?

We have all seen it. Intersections are like crossroads of chaos. You have cars coming and going in all directions. Some drivers are speeding up to make a light, others are slamming on their brakes to stop in time. Intersections are often a circus under the best of circumstances.

This mix of speeds and directions can be a recipe for disaster, especially if someone is not paying full attention. Here is a look at some of the reasons intersection car collisions are particularly dangerous and pose such a high risk:

• Multiple Points of Conflict: Intersections force drivers to assess multiple points of traffic at once – crossing vehicles, turning cars, and even pedestrians and cyclists. A single misjudgment, whether due to speed or distraction, can quickly lead to a car collision.
• Signal Confusion and Errors: When traffic lights, signs, or road markings are unclear, drivers may respond differently. Misinterpreting a flashing light, missing a yield sign, or misjudging a yellow light duration creates a risky situation, especially at busy intersections.
• Driver Behaviors: Often, it is a distracted driver approaching an intersection that leads to tragic consequences. By failing to yield or obey traffic signals, distracted drivers endanger everyone on the road.
• High Speeds and Sudden Stops: Drivers often approach intersections at higher speeds and make sudden stops due to traffic signals or stop signs, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions or T-bone car crashes.
• Side-Impact Crashes: Intersections are common sites for side-impact (or T-bone) car accidents, where the front or rear of another vehicle strikes the side of another car. The sides of a vehicle are not as sturdy as the front and back. The front and rear are designed to absorb impact, with crumple zones and engine or trunk space acting as barriers. But the sides are much thinner and offer less buffer between the outside and passenger side.
• Misread Traffic Signs and Signals: Intersections can have complex road signs and signaling systems that may cause confusion to drivers, leading to mistakes in judgment and car accidents.
• Increased Congestion: Intersections are typically areas of higher traffic density, increasing the chances of car wrecks, especially during peak traffic and rush hour.
• Limited Visibility: Parked vehicles, trees or bushes, buildings or retail stores, or other obstructions near intersections can limit a driver’s visibility, and make it harder to see oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers may be more likely to be distracted at intersections because they let their guard down and become impatient. Drivers tend to adjust their radio, or text on their cell phones, or do other activities, which leads to a higher risk of being in an auto accident.

The Hidden Legal Problems Behind Intersection Auto Accidents

Here are some examples of what might be a problem during the legal process following an intersection accident.

• Multiple Drivers, Multiple Stories: Since multiple vehicles and often pedestrians are involved in intersection car crashes testimonies can vary widely.
  Gathering reliable witness accounts is essential, but it can be difficult when each party has a different story. Law enforcement reports, witness statements, and any available video footage could be considered.
• Intersection Design Flaws: Sometimes, a poor intersection design contributes to car accidents. Sharp angles, unclear signage, and obstructed views can lead drivers into dangerous situations.
  If an intersection’s layout or maintenance played a role in your car crash, you may have grounds to seek compensation from the governing authority.
• Insurance Adjusters and Fault: Some adjusters may try to deny or reduce your claim by asserting partial fault, even when it is clear who had the right-of-way.
  Knowing your rights and being prepared with strong evidence can help push back against these tactics.

To Avoid Intersection Car Accidents, Drivers Can Employ the Following Strategies:

• Approach intersections with caution: When approaching intersections, slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. Scan the intersection for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, and proceed with caution.
• Obey Signs and Traffic Signals: Always adhere to traffic signals, signs, and pavement markings at intersections. Come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, and yield the right-of-way when required.
• Maintain Situational Awareness: Stay alert and focused while driving, especially when approaching intersections. Avoid distractions such as using electronic devices, eating, or adjusting the radio, as these activities can impair your ability to react to hazards.
• Anticipate Other Drivers’ Actions: Be aware of the movements of other vehicles at intersections and anticipate their actions. Look for signs of motorists preparing to turn or change lanes, and adjust your driving accordingly to avoid potential conflicts.

By following these strategies, drivers can reduce the risk of intersection, side-impact or T-bone car crashes and promote safer driving habits at intersections.

Contact a Maryland Intersection Car Crash Attorney Today

Approaching an intersection can feel routine, another pause on the daily route. However, data and experience tell us that intersections are among the most common and dangerous locations for traffic accidents. Not only are they prime spots for car crashes, but they are also often the stage for multi-vehicle crashes with complicated liability issues.

If you have been injured in an intersection accident that was caused by another vehicle, it is crucial to understand the challenges these car accidents pose and your rights to fair compensation. You have rights that need to be fully protected. You may also be eligible to recover money to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other losses brought on by the car wreck.

Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Lary B. Litt that you can trust will give you peace of mind as you recover knowing that they will fight for the compensation that you deserve. Call our law firm at 443-844-1528 to schedule your free no-obligation 1:1 consultation. We are available anytime day or night.