No matter how carefully we drive, accidents (such as left turn accidents) can still happen. Other drivers can be acting carelessly, cars can malfunction or road conditions can get in the way increasing the likelihood of a collision.
Even though driving high speed on a freeway might seem dangerous, statistics show accidents are more likely to happen on city streets. This is especially the case at busy intersections where it can seem as if cars are coming out at you from nowhere.
If you were involved in a car accident that took place at a busy South Carolina intersection, you need to team up with a good lawyer to get the compensation you deserve.
Busy Intersections in South Carolina
In 2017, the Post and Courier published its list of the 10 worst intersections in South Carolina. This was based on traffic crash data from the Department of Public Safety collected between the years of 2011 and 2015. The three intersections that topped the list were:
- I-20 and US 176 (Columbia)- 669
- I-26 and Ashley Phosphate Rd. (North Charleston)- 629
- I-85 and Pelham Rd. (Greenville) -494
Avoiding those intersections may be an excellent way to keep you safe on the road, but it is always best to practice safe driving to prevent accidents to a minimum.
Leading Causes of South Carolina Intersection Crashes
Being aware of the causes of intersection crashes can help you to identify dangerous situations and avoid them if possible. Though poor road conditions can contribute to accidents, most accidents are due to human error and negligence. With that in mind, here are some everyday actions drivers take that are likely to cause collisions:
Distracted Driving: Drivers that are on their devices or are doing something that distracts their attention off the road can pose a danger to other drivers.
Illegal Maneuver: Speeding, crossing over intersections illegally and other similar actions can increase the chance of accidents.
Turning with an Obstructed View: This can occur if you have a load in your vehicle that is obstructing your view or perhaps the positioning of your car is giving you an inadequate look of the road.
Misjudgment of Another Vehicle’s Speed: You may think that you have enough time to turn, but vehicles may be coming faster than you think
False Assumption of Another Vehicle’s Actions: No matter how safe you are being, you can never account for the actions of another driver.
Inadequate Surveillance: It is always best to look in all directions. Failure to do so can result in an accident.
Ways to Avoid an Intersection Crash
Although intersection crashes can happen to even the most careful drivers, following basic rules of the road will make them less likely to occur. Here are some things you can do to reduce the risk of intersection accidents:
Avoid Distracted Driving: Keep devices away while driving and do your best to concentrate despite what may be going on inside your car. If you are going through a busy intersection, your full attention will be required.
Avoid Speeding: Speeding through an intersection is especially dangerous. It is best to approach intersections slowly, making sure to check for other vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding through.
Maintain Your Vehicle: If your car breaks down suddenly, it can cause an obstacle for other drivers and make collisions likely. This can be especially dangerous in a busy intersection. Do your best to keep this from happening by maintaining your vehicle regularly.
Know the Rules of the Road: Knowing who has the right of way and when you need to yield to pedestrians and other vehicles can minimize your chances of being involved in an accident at a busy intersection. If you are unclear on any of these rules, brush up by consulting your South Carolina Driver’s Manual.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time: Giving yourself time to get to your destination will make for safer, more focused driving and reduce the temptation to speed.
Finding the Best South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a South Carolina intersection crash, you need to team up with a good lawyer to get the compensation you deserve. Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers has a caring, experienced team of lawyers who take a client-centered approach to build a trusting relationship. They are aggressive when it comes to fighting at-fault parties to see to it that justice is served.
If you were involved in an intersection crash in the state of South Carolina, call Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers first!
