4 Safe Driving Tips to Avoid Car Accidents at Intersections throughout South Florida
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Some good news is being reported for Palm Beach residents, who have watched with concern as traffic-related accidents at major intersections increased over the last few years.
Palm Beach County Intersections Saw a Sharp Decline in Car Accidents During 2020
According to the Palm Beach Post, Palm Beach County intersections saw a sharp decline in car accidents during 2020, as the stay-at-home orders and pandemic-related lockdowns forced many people to spend more time off roadways. This ends a five-year streak that saw at least one intersection in Palm Beach clock in 100 or more auto accidents each year during that time frame.
Historically, the intersection at Okeechobee Boulevard and Military Trail in West Palm Beach “won” the distinction as the worst intersection in terms of collisions for the last seven years. In 2019 alone, that intersection saw 115 crashes. However, in 2020, South Jog Road and Forest Hill Boulevard in Greenacres finished first, with 84 total crashes during 2020.
While Palm Beach saw fewer intersection accidents in 2020, these types of incidents are a common problem across the country, resulting in tens of thousands of personal injury cases in 2019 alone. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), 40% of all crashes happen at intersections in the U.S. – the second-largest category of accidents, second only to rear-end collisions.
50% of serious collisions happen in intersections, and approximately 20% of fatal collisions occur there as well. Based on these statistics, it’s safe to say that intersections can be dangerous for drivers of all ages.
Use Caution When Approaching an Intersection Using These Tips:
Responsible drivers should always use caution when approaching an intersection while keeping in mind the following tips:
- Look Both Ways: Your parents probably gave you this advice as a child, but it bears repeating here. Drivers in a hurry are prone to running lights, which is why you should look left, look right, and look left again before proceeding through an intersection. This is especially true if you are the first car in line to proceed or turn.
- Use Your Turn Signal: Always signal your turn so that other drivers know which way you intend to go.
- Keep Your Foot Near the Brake: This is a great defensive driving strategy in general but can save your life as you turn or pass through an intersection. Rather than going from gas to brake, hover your foot over the brake as you approach the intersection. Doing this can shave off the time it takes to brake in sudden, dangerous situations.
- Use Caution on Yellow: One of the most dangerous times to enter an intersection is when the traffic light turns yellow. When the light turns yellow, drivers have a propensity to drive faster to beat red lights. Watch carefully when the light turns yellow at an intersection, and only proceed with a left turn if the coast is clear.
The Most Trusted Personal Injury Law Firm in South Florida
If you have been injured in an auto accident that stemmed from another driver’s negligence at an intersection, know that you may be entitled to compensation. During this challenging time, it is crucial that you work with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney who can help you navigate the road ahead. At the Law Offices of Russ E. Robbins, we have represented hundreds of victims just like yourself, we know how to fight back against big insurance companies to get you the payout you deserve. We’re only a phone call away – call us anytime, day or night at (561) 362-5215. No obligation, no pressure, just sound legal advice – 24/7.
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