How to Avoid Car Accidents at Evansville Stoplights
Over the years, Evansville has been given the nickname “Stoplight City” because of the excessive number of stoplights you encounter when driving around town. While stoplights are designed to increase the flow of traffic and provide safety at intersections, they can be extremely dangerous if someone does not follow the correct protocol. This may seem like driver’s education 101, but it is not uncommon for people to get injured due to stoplight incidents. Here are some common stoplight incidents to watch out for.
Running Red Lights
There are two common situations in which people tend to run a red light. The first one is an instance where someone is trying to beat the red light. Instead of slowing down at a yellow light, the driver speeds up, and this can be dangerous if timing is off. At times, they will still miss the light. This can be dangerous if someone, who now has a green light, begins to cross the intersection.
If the light turns yellow, slow down instead of speeding up. It is also advised that you first check both ways before you proceed through a recently turned green light.
Another reason one might run a red light is by simply not paying attention. When you are driving, the task of driving should be your primary responsibility. Be especially cautious of stoplights so that you will be able to react to them in a timely manner to avoid injuring yourself and your fellow drivers.
Slamming on Brakes
While you should not attempt to beat a stoplight by speeding up, it is important that you use discernment to know when to stop. If you are almost to the light and you slam on your brakes the moment it turns yellow, you could catch the person behind you off guard and cause them to rear-end you. Many suggest that when approaching a stoplight you consciously decide at what point you will stop and at what point you will continue through the intersection if the light turns yellow. This can help eliminate last-minute decisions.
In addition, if you are driving behind someone in an area with stoplights, it is suggested that you give them an adequate amount of space to brake in case the light does turn yellow.
Dangerous Turns
It is not uncommon for accidents to occur because people attempt to make a dangerous turn at a stoplight. Many stoplights, if not otherwise marked, allow you to make left turns on the green light as long as there is no oncoming traffic. If you are waiting to make your turn, it is important that you are sure that you have enough time to clear the intersection in order to avoid getting t-boned by oncoming traffic.
Help from an Evansville Car Accident Attorney
If you were injured in a car accident that occurred because someone was not practicing safe traffic light protocol, you could be entitled to compensation. Call Hensley Legal Group today for a free consultation or contact us online.