The risks that drivers take at intersections may seem relatively inconsequential, eg. nipping into small gaps. Many drivers have experienced close calls or near misses when driving through an intersection but feel they always get away with it. The truth is taking risks at an intersection can result in serious injury and even death.
Intersection crash facts
Failure to give way at intersections is one of the largest causes of death and injuries on New Zealand roads, after driving at excessive speed and drink driving.
From 2004 to 2008, 6091 injury crashes occurred at intersections in Auckland. These crashes resulted in 65 deaths, 875 serious injuries and 6936 minor injuries.
Many people, who otherwise drive responsibly, take chances or rush their decisions at intersections because they are running late or feel pressured by the cars behind. Failure to stop, not checking properly and general errors of judgement are the main causes of crashes at intersections.
Peak time for injury crashes at intersections is between 3pm to 6pm.
Drivers in the15-19 year old group are most likely to be involved in an intersection crash, followed by 20-24 year old drivers.
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable at intersections. The majority of injury crashes involving a cyclist and car happen at intersections and occur because drivers fail to look properly.
How to reduce your chances of having an intersection crash
At intersections controlled by stop signs always stop completely, don’t just slow down.
Don’t worry about cars behind you. Concentrate on your own driving and make decisions that you are happy with. If you cause a crash you will be responsible, not them.
Take special care to look for cyclists, motorcyclists and any pedestrians who may start crossing on the road into which you are turning.
At intersections controlled by traffic lights be prepared to stop. If the lights have been green for a while then it's likely they will turn orange soon.
Don’t speed up to get through an orange light. Always stop on orange if you can do so safely. If you approach at an appropriate speed, stopping should not be a problem.
Always obey the give way rules. If you are not sure what they are, you need to learn them.