Recent data provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) revealed that over half of the combined total of fatal and injury-related accidents occur at or near an intersection. The total number of intersection-related crashes in Alabama soared over 85,000 in just one year. This research shows that there are some dangerous intersections in Alabama. What makes these portions of the road so bad?
If you are one of the many residents who was involved in an intersection-related accident, you may benefit from speaking to an Alabama personal injury attorney about your accident. The car accident lawyers at Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. have considerable experience helping people who were hurt in a wreck caused by another person’s carelessness. Call (205) 933-1500 today, or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.
What Makes Some of Alabama’s Intersections So Dangerous?
Intersections can be some of the most treacherous areas on roadways. Many major cities, including Mobile, Montgomery, and Huntsville, are home to some of the most dangerous intersections in Alabama. The problems drivers encounter at difficult intersections include:
- Blind spots
- Dated road signs
- Poorly marked lanes
- Road defects
- Lack of a proper crosswalk
An intersection is particularly dangerous because there are so many different ways cars can crash. Some of the more common accidents are:
- Rear-end crashes. These can occur whether the intersection has a traffic light or just stop signs. When a driver doesn’t pay attention to what is going on in front of them, they may miss the cue to stop. Additionally, if you are rushing to beat a red light and the car in front of you stops, you might not have enough time to put on the brakes as well, which can send you right into their rear bumper.
- “T-bone” crashes. This type of accident is most commonly caused when a driver turning left runs into an oncoming car.
- Sideswipe crashes. While not as prevalent as rear-end or T-bone crashes, a negligent driver could drift into another lane and sideswipe a vehicle.
- Collisions with pedestrians or bicyclists. At intersections, you must look out for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as cars. A little extra caution can save you from causing a horrific accident.
Poor Driving Habits Add to Intersection Problems
While the design of an intersection can certainly be the root of some issues, the driving habits of some motorists often add to the risk of accidents. Some of the most reckless driving habits include:
- Speeding
- Running red lights
- Failing to yield to other traffic
- Neglecting to use turn signals
- Texting or using your phone while driving
- Other distracting habits
- Ignoring or failing to observe pedestrians crossing the intersection
Hurt In A Wreck? Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer for Help
When you’ve been in a car accident in one of the many dangerous intersections in Alabama, you should be able to get advice and assistance from a car accident lawyer you can trust. If you were injured or your car sustained considerable damage, you need to be able to take the time to heal and get your personal property repaired. When you’re supporting a family, they count on your work wages to pay the bills and put food on the table.
Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. has helped clients with their car accident cases in many counties all over the state. We understand the position you’re put in when you’re too hurt to work, but you depend on your paycheck. Let us help you seek the damages you’re entitled to request after a car accident that wasn’t your fault. We will be your main point of contact, so you can focus on healing and getting your life back.
To schedule a free, initial evaluation of your case, contact us today at (205) 933-1500.
