Common Causes of Car Crashes at St. Louis Intersections

If you are eligible for compensation, your St. Louis car accident lawyer can assist you with building your case to ensure you receive a just and fair amount.

When two roads or more cross each other, the point at which they intersect becomes a very busy place where conflicting actions can happen. Vehicles turn left or right, cross over, or attempt to beat the red light. This is the main reason why car crashes happen more at intersections than at other points on a road.

Crash Factors

Several dynamics influence the potential for a car crash. First, the driver’s profile, such as their age, mental and emotional state, line of work, and personal circumstances. Second, the status of traffic lights or other traffic control devices. Third, the weather conditions. And fourth, a critical pre-crash event which may have made a collision inevitable.

Common Causes of Intersection Crashes

In a report of the U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), statistics showed that 36% of car crashes are intersection-related. Of these, the three major reasons are drivers (96%), vehicle malfunction (less than 3%), and weather disturbance (less than 3%).

Drivers

Most of the driver-attributed car crashes at intersections are due to a failure to pay full attention to the road. This lack of observation by a driver of his or her surroundings may lead to false assumption of other drivers’ actions, turning with an obstructed view, and misjudging either another driver’s speed or the gap between their vehicles.

Careless driving is another major reason. The driver could be lost in thought or distracted, under the influence of alcohol, suddenly change lanes, or ignore traffic signs.

Aggressive driving is also one of the most common causes of car crashes. These include speeding, making an illegal maneuver, tailgating, intentionally disobeying traffic signs, and refusing to yield right of way.

Vehicle Malfunction

Some car crashes are attributable to a technical failure in the car itself. An error in the brake system, a steering wheel going out of control, or a sudden flat tire can impede a driver’s ability to drive their vehicle safely.

Weather

Hard rain, sleet, or snow can also affect road conditions and a vehicle’s performance. Skidding cars on slippery streets is a dangerous combination that may lead to crashes, particularly at a busy intersection where traffic comes and goes in every direction. Extreme weather can also obstruct a driver’s view and affect their calculation of speed and distance.

Being involved in a car crash can cause serious injuries, property damages, or even loss of life. If you or a loved one have been involved in an intersection accident, it is highly recommended that you speak with a St. Louis auto accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.

If you are eligible for compensation, your St. Louis car accident lawyer can assist you with building your case to ensure you receive a just and fair amount.