Experienced, Reputable Denver Lawyers

Experienced, Reputable Denver Lawyers

Attorneys at Beem & Isley P.C.

Distracted drivers place you at risk at intersections

On Behalf of | Dec 17, 2021 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

As a licensed driver in Colorado, you understand that you’re obligated to adhere to safety regulations every time you get behind the wheel. For instance, even if you’re in a hurry because you’re running late for an important meeting, you’re still obligated to come to a full stop at all red lights and stop signs. Disregarding traffic laws places you and any other motorists or pedestrians who happen to be nearby at risk for collision.

Intersections are sections of roadway that are highly dangerous, especially if you’re sharing the road with a distracted driver. There are several things to keep in mind to improve intersection safety; however, you can’t control another driver’s behavior. So, even if you do everything right, a nearby distracted driver may cause a tragedy to occur.

Distracted drivers often fail to use their turn signals

Using a turn signal at an intersection isn’t an option; it’s required by law when you pull away from a curb, change lanes or navigate a turn. Drivers who are distracted often fail to use their turn signals, which, at an intersection, can have disastrous results. If you’re moving straight through an intersection and a driver whose vehicle is facing straight in the opposite direction suddenly turns in front of you, you might not have time to safely react to avoid a crash.

Always scan your surroundings and move slowly through a crossroad

If you’re at stop sign or red light at an intersection, it’s imperative that you pay close attention to your surroundings. It’s always best to slowly move through an intersection, especially when turning. Many fatal collisions occur at crossroads when distracted drivers fail to notice a red light and enter the intersection at full speed.

You can also be hit from behind when you’re stopped at an intersection

You’ll be safer at an intersection if you maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. However, if you’re stopped at a traffic light or stop sign, and a distracted driver approaches from the rear, the next thing you hear might be the clashing of metal as his or her vehicle slams into the back of your car. Rear end collisions at intersections often whiplash and other severe injuries.

It is always best to seek medical attention after an intersection collision

Injuries that occur due to blunt force trauma upon impact in a motor vehicle collision are not always visible or immediately apparent. This is why it’s best to seek medical attention right away, even if you think you’re okay. If you were thrust forward or your hit hid a hard surface, you could have injuries that require surgery or other medical treatment to heal.

An unexpected onslaught of medical bills can cause serious financial distress. However, many recovering accident victims are able to offset their expenses when they file personal injury claims and the court rules in their favor by ordering the person or people deemed responsible for their injuries to pay compensation for damages.

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