Intersections: the accident zones

Did you know that one third of all automobile accidents occur at intersections? In fact, more than 4 million crashes occurred nationwide at intersections in 2010, according to a study by State Farm, the nations largest automobile insurer.

It is not unusual that crashes are concentrated at intersections, because intersections are the point on the roadway system where traffic movements most frequently conflict with one another.
Knowing this, how can we make sure we avoid an intersection related accident?

There are steps that you can take to lessen the chance that you will be involved in an intersection collision. Here are several safe driving tips when crossing an intersection:

Many serious accidents occur when someone runs a red light, whether intentional or not. Be aware of this possibility. Keep a sharp eye for cross traffic before entering the intersection.
Often traffic proceeding in the opposite direction is permitted to turn left when it is clear to do so. Don't assume that this driver will yield to your vehicle. Be prepared to stop or utilize other avoidance techniques as you approach the intersection.

When your light turns yellow don't speed up in an attempt to beat the red light. You don't know when your light will switch to the red cycle and you never know how fast cross traffic will take to enter the intersection.
Be careful turning and accelerating at intersections. Pedestrians may be crossing and other vehicles ahead may be stopped.

Always keep a safe stopping distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front. Pay attention to what the driver immediately in front of you is doing. Rear end collisions are very common at intersections.

Never change lanes as you are passing through an intersection. Other drivers may be performing different traffic maneuvers at the same time you are passing through the intersection. When you perform an unexpected traffic maneuver you increase your chance of being involved in an accident.

Storms can cause power outages. Be careful if the intersection lights are out or on a blinking cycle. Treat it as an "all stop" intersection. Do not proceed until you can safely traverse the intersection.
While you cannot insulate yourself from automobile accidents, by practicing safe driving, you can reduce your chance of being in an accident.