Intersection-related crashes are more than 50 percent of all crashes in urban areas and more than 30 percent in rural areas according to ‘the driver advantage’. The number of crashes at intersections are higher than average because they involve two or more roads crossing each other with each driver performing a different maneuver. There are a number of different intersections that students will need to learn how to identify on the road.
- Controlled Intersections
Regulated by traffic lights and/or stop signs (referred to as traffic devices) at all approaches
- Partially Controlled Intersections
Controlled by a stop sign or traffic device at one or more approaches
- Uncontrolled Intersections
No observable regulations. Usually, the intersection is a “T” shape. Drivers on the road that comes to an end must yield for cross traffic.
Here are 3 tips for dealing with intersections when you are on the road:
- Searching in advance for traffic signs
Before you get to an intersection you will see signs alerting you to what type of intersection is approaching. You may see a sign that explains what maneuver you are allowed to make. If you wait too long to get in the right lane, traffic could build in that lane, preventing you from going where you need to go.
- Tapping your brakes to alert following drivers
If as you are approaching an intersection and there is a vehicle behind you following too closely and may hit you in the event of yellow or red light, tap your brakes lightly to indicate your intent to stop. By tapping your brake lights, it brings attention quickly to other drivers, making them more aware of your vehicle and your actions.
- Stopping before the bar
When your vehicle is the first to stop at an intersection going in your direction, you are to stop before a stop bar. In doing so, you may notice that sometimes the stop bars do not line up at intersections; these are called staggered stops. Staggered stops allow larger vehicles to turn at intersections without interfering with traffic. You must stop behind white stop bars on the road regardless of where they appear.