Why do so many car accidents occur at intersections? Researchers at the University of Teas at Austin set out to answer that question and their findings might interest you. The study revealed that intersections controlled by flashing lights have three times the likelihood of a car crash than an intersection controlled by a stop sign. The flashing lights can confuse some drivers, according to researchers.
In addition, cities often install traffic lights at intersections that are already dangerous. The study also found that intersections along frontage roads have high incidents of car accidents because drivers do not slow down enough as they exit the freeway. What makes frontage road intersections even more dangerous is that drivers tend to switch lanes as they approach the intersection.
We are in the midst of the most dangerous time for car accidents, according to the study. December and January have the highest rates of car crashes per vehicle mile traveled. Overall, there is one traffic accident death every 16 minutes in the United States. About 40 percent of all car accidents occur at intersections. The UT researchers will present their study later this month at the National Transportation Research Board Meeting in Washington DC.
While we are fortunate here in New Orleans to not have to endure snowstorms and typical winter road conditions, there are dangerous intersections that can present dangers to pedestrians and other drivers.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans accident attorneys