Driving can be a risky business. Every time you sit behind the wheel of your vehicle, you are committing to obey the rules of the road, and you must rely on other drivers to do the same. Unfortunately, accidents happen every day. It’s worth noting that there are certain parts of the road that cause more confusion and lead to more problems than others. Let’s analyze the data collected by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles’ Traffic Records Unit and Traffic Safety Unit in 2021. The document outlines extenuating circumstances leading to a collision, as well as providing statistics for each.
1. Intersections. Intersections can be tricky, even for experienced drivers. 22,578 collisions were reported with extenuating circumstances that revolved around the mechanics of an intersection: disregard for stop sign, disregard for stoplight, right turn on red, and improper turning.
2. Lane Change. The highway is known for its increased speeds and multiple traffic lanes. Drivers sometimes weave between lanes in an effort to find the fastest and most efficient route forward. But lane changes require a driver to engage their blinker, look in their sideview mirror, and then slowly maneuver their vehicle to the side. 14,941 collisions occurred as a result of improper lane change etiquette.
3. Center Line. The center line on a road separates the traffic going in two separate directions. Whether it’s dangerous and improper passing or simply driving over the center line, collisions can happen on almost any road. There were 12,582 crashes that centered around a disregard or misuse of the center line.
Now that we’ve covered the three most dangerous areas and conditions for collisions to occur, let’s discuss how to avoid them. The last thing you want is to become the next victim. Here are some tips to keep you and your passengers safe.
• Intersections
• Come to a complete stop at every stop sign.
• Don’t rush to make a yellow light.
• Wait a few seconds to accelerate after the light has turned green.
• Take your time and look before turning on red.
• Lane Changes
• Stay in one lane as much as possible.
• Practice defensive driving.
• Make liberal use of your blinker and sideview mirrors.
• Center Line
• Never pass while on hills or going around cars.
• Keep yourself center-right in your lane.
• Observe solid/dotted center lines.
But even the most prepared drivers can fall victim to an automobile accident. If you were not at fault, then you may be entitled to compensation for loss and damage. Contact our team here at Wayne Hardee Law to receive the guidance and representation that you need. We’re ready to help!
