Intersections are where most serious traffic conflicts happen. According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 50% of injury crashes and roughly 25% of all traffic fatalities occur at intersections. While many are routine, others are deceptively dangerous — especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
Signs You’re Approaching a Dangerous Intersection
- Blind Intersections: These occur when your view is obstructed by trees, parked cars, fences, buildings, or sharp curves. Drivers must edge out slowly to see oncoming traffic, increasing crash risk.
- Non-Perpendicular Intersections: Roads that meet at odd or skewed angles can make it harder to judge oncoming speed and create unusual turning radii.
- Poor Visibility: Insufficient street lighting or faded lane markings reduce your ability to react in time, especially at night or during bad weather.
- Unclear or Inconsistent Signage: Missing stop signs, malfunctioning lights, or confusing lane designations lead to hesitation and misjudgment.
- Pedestrian-Heavy Zones: Areas near schools, parks, or urban centers can be hazardous due to jaywalking or poor crosswalk placement.
- Right Turn on Red Conflicts: Drivers often fail to fully stop or overlook pedestrians and cyclists crossing legally during their green signal.
How to Drive Defensively at Dangerous Intersections
- Approach Blind Intersections with Caution: Ease forward slowly and be prepared to stop suddenly. Honking lightly can warn unseen drivers or pedestrians.
- Handle Angled Intersections Carefully: Signal earlier than usual, and take turns slowly. Use extra caution when turning left across traffic.
- Full Stop Before Right Turn on Red: Always come to a full stop and look for pedestrians and cyclists before proceeding.
- Anticipate Pedestrian Movement: Especially at multi-lane roads or wide intersections, watch for late walkers who enter the crosswalk even after the signal changes.
- Use Your Mirrors and Look Both Ways: Even when you have the right of way, scan all directions to catch red light runners or erratic drivers.
- Don’t Trust Green Lights Blindly: Pause for a second after your light turns green to scan for red-light runners.
What to Do If You See a Collision Brewing
- Brake, Don’t Swerve: Sudden lane changes can lead to worse outcomes or involve more vehicles.
- Sound Your Horn: If you sense danger or see someone running a red light or stepping into traffic unaware.
- Record If Safe: Dashcams or nearby traffic cameras may help prove fault or protect you legally.
- Call Emergency Services: If an accident occurs, pull over safely and provide detailed information to 911.
Tips for Pedestrians at Dangerous Intersections
- Use Marked Crosswalks Only: Avoid jaywalking, especially at multilane or angled intersections.
- Make Eye Contact with Drivers: Don’t assume they see you — especially those turning right on red.
- Wait for a Full Stop: Ensure vehicles have stopped completely before stepping into a crosswalk, even with a walk signal.
- Be Visible at Night: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low-light areas.
How to Report a Bad Intersection
Many intersections are only improved after public complaints and reports. If you know of an intersection that consistently has near misses, consider reporting it to your local Department of Transportation or city traffic safety office. You can also share it on BadIntersections.com to help warn other drivers.
Final Thoughts
Intersections are where trust and caution intersect — quite literally. By slowing down, looking carefully, and anticipating the actions of others, you can reduce your risk at even the most dangerous locations. And by reporting bad intersections, you help make the road safer for everyone.
🚧 Know a dangerous intersection in your city? Submit it here to help others drive safer.