4 Tips for Avoiding Crashes at Intersections

March 28, 2016 | Ed Bernstein
4 Tips for Avoiding Crashes at Intersections

Three people were injured in a head-on collision near State Route 159 on Blue Diamond Road last Wednesday. According to the Las Vegas Sun Times, the crash happened around 9 p.m. and involved a green Chevrolet Impala and silver Honda Civic.

Driver ed classroom education board demonstration with toy cars of a crash at a road intersection with accident involving a red vehicle failing to yield and illegally running a stop sign while responsible for a dangerous collision with a blue automobile driving with right of way and subsequent auto body damage

The intersection where the crash took place is notorious for fatal accidents. This caught the attention of state leaders in 2013, according to FOX5 Vegas. However, the recent collision demonstrates that the dangers persist, and drivers must be particularly vigilant when travelling on Blue Diamond Road.

Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to reduce the likelihood of crashing at an intersection. These include maintaining a safe following distance, anticipating the actions of other drivers, and avoiding distractions.

If you suffered an injury due to an intersection crash that another driver caused, contact Ed Bernstein & Associates. Our firm has been representing the injured for more than 40 years. We can talk to witnesses, gather evidence and help you avoid mistakes during the claims process.

Call 702-240-0000 to schedule a free initial consultation with a Las Vegas personal-injury lawyer. Until then, read on to learn four tips for avoiding wrecks at intersections:

  1. Maintain a safe following distance.

Maintaining a safe following distance will give you plenty of time to brake if the leading vehicle stops suddenly. This often happens at intersections when a vehicle runs a red light. It may also happen if pedestrians unexpectedly enter the intersection. In inclement weather, be sure to extend your following distance to account for slick roads and low visibility.

  1. Anticipate the actions of other drivers.

Running a red light may be illegal, but it is still common due to driver distractions. In some cases, drivers text or adjust GPS systems at red lights, and if they let their feet off the brake, they may unknowingly enter the intersection. If you notice a motorist approaching the intersection from the perpendicular road, and the driver does not appear to be slowing down, then hit your brakes.

  1. Avoid distractions.

In 2014, distracted driving caused more than 3,150 deaths in the United States, according to Distraction.gov. A significant number of these crashes happened at intersections.

Cell phone use, daydreaming, eating and other distractions can cause drivers to run red lights and stop signs. It is critical that you avoid distractions while behind the wheel.

  1. Do not race a yellow light.

Although it may be tempting to race a yellow light, this behavior will make you less prepared for unexpected hazards. If you hit the accelerator and a driver runs a red light, or a pedestrian enters the intersection, then the accident is likely to be severe. Waiting a few minutes for a green light is much better than causing a fatal crash.

Unfortunately, even the safest drivers cannot control the actions of other motorists. If you were injured due to a negligent driver, then you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, time off work and other damages.

A Nevada accident attorney from Ed Bernstein & Associates can help you fight for the maximum settlement. If your case goes to trial, we have the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 702-240-0000.

Read a story about what happened in Las Vegas when a car ran a red light here - https://usattorneys.com/bus-accident-lawyers/driver-runs-red-light-and-slams-into-vegas-school-bus/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ed Bernstein

Edward M. Bernstein, Esq. is the owner and founding partner of Edward M. Bernstein & Associates, and one of the most recognizable figures in Nevada. Ed is one of state’s premier personal injury attorneys and has hosted The Ed Bernstein Show for over 31 years. He has served the Las Vegas community for decades with dozens of community appointments and terms of service. In the year 2000, he was Nevada’s Democratic nominee for the United States Senate.

Ed received his B.A. from Long Island University in 1971 and his J.D. from Widener University in 1975. Since then, Ed’s professional accolades include numerous publications, honors and awards, court appointments, and has been named one of America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators.