Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows over 96% of these crashes at intersections are caused by inattention or driver error. Phone use behind the wheel by drivers is a major cause of distraction. Only 3% of intersection crashes are caused by mechanical, hydraulic or electric failures with vehicles or by issues such as weather or road condition.
The data also reveals that most road crashes could be avoided if greater care was taken by drivers. Speed is one major cause of intersections, as is drivers who fail to look properly for potential hazards or for the presence of other road users. Anticipating what other road users may do can further help reduce the risk of crashes, as can the understanding that other road users may be speeding, distracted or driving under the influence.
Failing to look properly is a cause of 44.1% crashes at intersections, while incorrectly anticipating what other road users will do is a factor in 8.4% of crashes. Making a turn while the view of the road is not clear is a factor in 7.8% of intersection crashes while making an improper manoeuvre is a factor in 6.8% of crashes at intersections. Being distracted by something in the vehicle is a factor is 5.7% of intersection crashes while judging the speed of other vehicles inaccurately is a factor in 5.5% of intersection crashes.
Drivers need to show greater awareness and a greater understanding of the behaviour of all types of road users according to the NHTSA. And reducing speed can help reduce the risk of crashes as well as the severity of any incident that does occur.
