Intersection safety

A meeting of the minds

You are more likely to be involved in a collision while approaching or traveling through an intersection than almost anywhere else you drive. This is because there are multiple factors associated with intersections. Traffic signals, timing of approach to the intersection, vehicles crossing, variable speeds, the possibility of pedestrians, and drivers who aren’t paying enough attention are all reasons that can lead to an unfortunate “meeting of the minds”.

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quick tips for intersection safety

• SLOW DOWN:  Reduce your speed when approaching signal lights that have been green for awhile (“Stale Green Lights”).  They may change to yellow as you approach causing you to make a risky decision to brake or continue.
• BE CAUTIOUS:  Even if you have the right of way, make sure it’s safe before you begin moving through the intersection. Just because you have the right of way, it doesn’t mean that other vehicles will yield to you.
• BE PREPARED TO YIELD:  Don’t assume that just because you have the right of way that others will yield to you.  Watch for other vehicles approaching and anticipate that they won’t yield the right of way.  Remember, RIGHT OF WAY is shared and given between drivers.
• MAKE A FULL STOP:  Make sure to stop at ALL stop signs and red signals.  A full stop is defined as “ceasing all movement forward”, so a “rolling” stop is not an actual stop.  This also allows you to prepare for any other vehicles approaching the intersection who might not
• BE AWARE OF PEDESTRIANS:  Watch for pedestrians or bicyclists who may be crossing the road.  If they’re distracted or not paying attention, they could step out in front of your approaching vehicle.
  
• LOOK FOR ONCOMING TRAFFIC:  Eliminate your risk of a collision by watching all oncoming vehicles approaching from all sides.  Check for signs the vehicles might not stop or are preparing to turn at the intersection.  If possible, make eye contact with the other drivers.  If not, watch the front tires for signs of movement or turning.
  
• AVOID FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY:  Keep a safe driving and stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.  SAFE SPACE means room to move or escape danger if needed.
  

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When you drive proactively, you're aware and ready for whatever happens. You’re cautious, yet ready to take action and not put your fate in the hands of other drivers.  As a proactive driver, you can avoid crashes and help lower your risk behind the wheel. Home Safe All The Time.