Chicago’s E 79th and S Stoney Island is one of our city’s most dangerous intersections, especially for left turns. How should you approach these risks, and how might you avoid them?

August 21, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

In a big city like Chicago, our traffic infrastructure is crucial for maintaining a traffic flow and allowing for safe navigation of the city. Some intersections, however, are more dangerous than others and it is important to understand these risks. E 79th and S Stoney Island is regarded as one of the most dangerous intersections in the city. The problems that persist at this intersection make left turns particularly dangerous. In this post, we will talk about some of the risks drivers should be aware of involving left turns, offer some tips on how to safely approach this junction, and discuss whether it might be best to avoid this intersection altogether.

There are multiple factors that contribute to the dangers surrounding E 79th and S Stoney Island and make turning left particularly dangerous. Let’s dive into each one of these issues:

Lots of Traffic and Congestion:

E 79th and S Stoney Island sees more traffic flow from vehicles and pedestrians than many other places in the city. The Chicago Department of Transportation recorded that this intersection experiences thousands of vehicles worth of daily traffic volume. Road users should be aware that high levels of traffic volume can significantly increase the risk of collisions, especially when making a left turn. Before turning, drivers must account for a high volume of oncoming traffic as well as pedestrian traffic.

Design Complexities:

Some danger is created due to the design of the intersection. E 79th and S Stoney Island has pedestrian crossings, turning lanes, and multiple main lanes which results in a complicated layout that may be confusing to even experienced drivers. The City of Chicago has conducted traffic engineering studies that point to the intricate design of E 79th and S Stoney Island, concluding that the risk of driver error and miscalculation is increased which can lead to accidents. This makes turning left all the more difficult, especially because drivers must be aware of oncoming traffic from different directions.

Missing Dedicated Turn Signals:

One potential problem with this intersection is its lack of dedicated turn signals. Without more specific signaling, drivers are forced to use their individual judgment when deciding whether to make a maneuver which can lead to misjudgment. Hasty left turns can cause collisions with oncoming traffic. It is usually safer to make your left turn at an intersection where there is an arrow.

Lack of Visibility:

At any intersection, poor visibility can create serious dangers. This is certainly true at E 79th and S Stoney Island. Rows of parked vehicles, obstructions due to tall buildings, and dim lighting create difficulties for drivers attempting to predict oncoming traffic or look out for pedestrians. Driving making left turns should be aware that poor visibility is a common cause of left turn-related collisions.

While this intersection poses some significant risks, there are some steps you can take to navigate a dangerous traffic situation:

Drive Defensively:

It is crucial that drivers practice driving defensively when approaching E 79th and S Stoney Island. Remember to stay alert, maintain your awareness of other drivers, and keep a safe following distance. When making a left turn, do not try and cross a tight gap in traffic. Assume that other drivers will not yield. It is also important to refrain from distracted driving and avoid your cell phone along with other distractions.

Adhere to Traffic Laws:

Your safety and that of other drivers depends on whether you follow local traffic laws. Remember to obey the speed limit, follow traffic signals, and look out for signage. When making a left turn without a dedicated green arrow, oncoming traffic has the right of way.

Check Blind Spots and Remember to Signal:

When making a left turn, using your turn signal early helps indicate your intention to other drivers. Make sure to give other drivers enough time to react and adjust their driving accordingly. Before making a lane change, make sure to check your blind spot to avoid a collision.

Be Visible:

It is especially important that your taillights, headlights, and signal lights are working. In an intersection like E 79th and S Stoney Island, where visibility can be poor, it is crucial to be as visible as possible. Not only should you use your headlights at dawn, dusk, and night, but also make sure to turn your headlights on in inclement weather like rain, snow, or fog. When making a left turn, it is crucial that oncoming traffic can see you and is aware that you intend to cross the path of traffic. You should also keep enough wiper fluid available and make sure that your windshield is clean.

Practice Patience:

Like any traffic scenario with lots of moving variables, navigating a busy intersection can be stressful. Driving aggressively can increase the risk of collision for you and the other drivers on the road. Only make your left turn when there is plenty of space in oncoming traffic. Remember to remain calm and yield when necessary. When it is time to progress through the intersection, drive with caution.

Given these risks, it might be best to avoid E 79th and S Stoney Island altogether if possible. Let’s consider some of our options:

Try a Different Route:

It may be helpful to use your navigation map to reroute your commute. Try some alternative routes with more predictable traffic patterns. Try and seek out intersections with dedicated left turn arrows. While this might add a few extra minutes to your drive, it may save you a lot of stress.

Experiment with Timing:

You may not be able to avoid the intersection entirely depending on your destination. If that is the case, experimenting with different commute times can make your drive safer. Leaving earlier to avoid peak rush hour might help you beat the traffic. The same can be said for driving later in the day. You can make a safer left turn when there is a smaller volume of oncoming traffic. While these times may be less convenient, you may find it worth it to have a safer commute.

Using Public Transportation:

Chicago has an extensive bus system that can be a helpful alternative to private transportation. Not only can taking the bus reduce your risk of a dangerous traffic accident, but public transportation is also a greener alternative.

E 79th and S Stoney Island in Chicago remains a highly dangerous intersection. When navigating this stressful junction, remember to practice safe driving techniques. When making your left turn, make sure you are aware of gaps in traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk. If possible, think about considering alternatives that could save you from having to tackle this intersection altogether. When in doubt, safety first!

Unveiling the Dangers of Right Hook and Left Cross Accidents: Protecting Cyclists in Intersections with Bike Lanes

August 4, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

As personal injury attorneys specializing in truck and auto crash cases, we are familiar with some of the risks faced by cyclists, particularly in intersections with bike lanes. Like many other types of accidents, left turns often play a role. In this post, we will go over some types of accidents involving bike lanes and left-turning vehicles. We will focus specifically on left cross accidents, but we will also explore the reverse scenario involving right turns called right hook accidents. By illuminating the risks for cyclists when navigating left-turning vehicles, we hope to contribute to your awareness of these potential dangers. We will talk about the causes, prevention measures, and potential consequences of these accidents.

Some Types of Accidents Involving Bike Lanes and Left-Turning Vehicles:

The Squeeze Play

In the case of a “squeeze play,” the left-turning vehicle fails to yield to the cyclist in the bike lane, causing the cyclist to be “squeezed” between the curb and the vehicle. This can cause a collision and potentially serious injuries.

The Hook and Cross

The “hook and cross” accident scenario is when a left-turning vehicle makes its turn across a bike lane without yielding to the oncoming cyclist. Misjudgment of the cyclist’s speed may cause serious collisions and potentially fatal injuries.

The Late Merge

A “late merge” occurs when a driver fails to merge gradually into the bike lane before making a left turn, and instead abruptly crosses the bike lane. Drivers can surprise cyclists with this sudden maneuver and leave them with little time to react, potentially resulting in a serious collision.

The Dooring Danger

One common cause of collisions is not specific to left turns but is worth mentioning, nonetheless. “Dooring danger” is the risk of drivers in the parked lane opening their doors without checking behind them, obstructing the bike lane abruptly. Not only can cyclists collide with the car door, but the obstruction may cause them to swerve into oncoming traffic which is highly dangerous.

Unveiling Left Cross Accidents

Definition and Common Scenarios

Left cross accidents occur when a left-turning vehicle fails to yield to an oncoming cyclist in the bike lane, causing a collision. This is a relatively common occurrence at intersections where the bike lane crossing the path of left-turning vehicles.

Consequences for Cyclists

Left cross accidents are highly dangerous collisions that can lead to severe or even fatal injuries. Drivers tend to make left turns more quickly than right turns, resulting in higher speeds of impact.

Factors Contributing to Left Cross Accidents

Misjudging Speed and Distance: Drivers may find it difficult to judge the speed and distance of oncoming cyclists. Drivers who intend to make a hasty turn may overestimate the gap in cyclist traffic. It is important that drivers only make left turns when it is clearly safe to do so and there is plenty of distance from oncoming traffic.

Inadequate Intersection Design: Some intersections may lack clear signage, dedicated left-turn signals, or proper lane markings. This significantly increases the risk of left cross accidents.

Lack of Awareness: Especially at unfamiliar intersections, both drivers and cyclists may be unaware of traffic patterns. It is the driver’s responsibility to yield to cyclists, and it to take additional time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings when making left turns.

Understanding Right Hook Accidents:

Definition and Common Scenarios

Right hook accidents are when a vehicle makes a right turn without yielding to a cyclist traveling straight in the adjacent bike lane. These accidents occur most often when vehicles have merged into the bike lane obstructing their view of cyclists behind them, or in intersections where the bike lane is positioned adjacent to traffic.

Consequences for Cyclists

Right hook accidents can be very serious, especially when a cyclist is traveling quicky and caught of guard by the turning vehicle. It is the driver’s responsibility to check their mirrors and blind spot before making their turn, though cyclists should be aware that some drivers may make an unsafe turn.

Factors Contributing to Right Hook Accidents

Limited Visibility: Bike lanes that are positioned on the side of the road may make cyclists harder to see. Drivers must turn around to check their blind spot, especially if the adjacent bike lane is difficult to see.

Driver Inattention and Distractions: Like many other types of collisions, driver inattention plays an outsized role. Using your phone while driving is never safe, especially at intersections when multiple flows of cyclist and pedestrian traffic need to be accounted for.

Failure to Yield: Drivers who see a cyclist coming may misjudge the speed and distance of the cyclist. In this scenario, the driver may fail to yield resulting in a collision.

Preventive Measures and Infrastructure Improvements:

Enhanced Driver Education and Awareness

As bike lanes become more ubiquitous on city streets, proper education, and awareness campaigns need to be implemented. Drivers must know that vehicle traffic is only one part of what they should be aware of, and cyclist traffic can be just as unpredictable.

Promoting Cyclist Visibility

Cyclists should be encouraged to wear reflective clothing, use reflective gear, and have reflectors on their bikes. This is especially important at dusk and during nighttime hours when visibility is especially low.

Intersection Design and Engineering Solutions

Intersections should be designed with safety in mind for drivers and cyclists as well as pedestrians. Not only should proper signage and signaling be implemented, but the physical layout of an intersection plays a large role in visibility for drivers and cyclists alike.

Policy Changes and Legislative Efforts

It is important to push for policies that prioritize safety, like minimum passing distance laws, protections for vulnerable road users, and increased penalties for accidents involving cyclists.

Accidents involving cyclists and left-turning vehicles, as well as right hook accidents, are particularly dangerous. By understanding the causes, being proactive by implementing preventative measures, and improving infrastructure, we can make the roads safer for both drivers and cyclists.

Understanding the types of accidents involving left-turning vehicles and bike lanes is crucial knowledge to help drivers and cyclists stay safe. The squeeze play, hook and cross, late merge, and dooring danger scenarios all require increased awareness on the part of drivers to avoid such scenarios.

The Role of Crash Avoidance Technology in Preventing Left Turn Accidents

August 1, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

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As personal injury lawyers, we know how common left turn accidents are and the specific risks that left turns can pose to drivers and pedestrians alike. Collisions involving left turns at intersections can cause severe injuries or even death because drivers must cross lanes of oncoming traffic. However, as crash avoidance technology continues to make strides, the risks associated with these types of maneuvers are starting to change. In this post, we will explore how crash avoidance systems specifically relate to left turns. We will talk about some of the potential benefits of this technology, as well as the drawbacks associated with it.

The Specific Challenges that Contribute to Left Turn Accidents:

Left turn maneuvers pose significant risks, specifically at intersections. However, left-turn accidents can also occur when pulling out of driveways or navigating parking lots. The need to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles accurately, as well as the limited visibility associated with left turns, mean that drivers making left turns face simultaneous challenges. Poor visibility due to obstructions, failure to yield, misjudgment, driver distraction, and impatience can increase the risk of these types of collisions.

Crash Avoidance Technology Continues to Evolve:

We’ve seen incredible advancements in crash avoidance technology over the years, creating lasting changes in the automotive industry and improving road safety. In fact, crash avoidance systems have been around for decades, and your car almost certainly uses some form of crash avoidance.

The first iteration of crash avoidance systems is something you’ve likely heard of. Antilock braking systems, or ABS, were invented in the 1950s. In the event of a hard brake in an emergency, antilock brakes allow drivers to maintain control by minimizing the possibility of skidding. ABS was an effective innovation that marked the beginning of crash avoidance technology.

Other systems began to take hold in the following decades. In the 1980s, traction control systems, or TCS, emerged as an effective system to reduce the likelihood of slipping. In the following decade, electronic stability control, or ESC, began to be implemented as a way to increase stability in hazardous driving conditions.

Newer forms of advanced driver assistance systems, or ADAS, emerged in the early 2000s as an early iteration of the type of crash avoidance technology we will be focusing on in this post. LIDAR, radar, cameras, and other sensors were tested to survey the driver’s surroundings in order to better avoid collisions. In the mid-2000s, AEB systems, or autonomous emergency braking systems, marked another breakthrough in crash avoidance.

The most recent forms of crash avoidance technology have incredible capabilities. LDW, or lane departure warning, and LDA, or lane departure assist, are very effective at combating lane drifting. BSD, or blind spot detection, addresses another common problem by warning drivers of objects in their blind spots.

Today, artificial intelligence is being implemented to improve the capabilities of crash avoidance technology. Using AI, crash avoidance systems will better be able to survey and predict possible hazards.

What is Left Turn Crash Avoidance Technology?:

One helpful capability of some crash avoidance systems is the left turn assistance component. Using a combination of sensors, vehicles with left turn assistance can better detect oncoming traffic as well as pedestrians in crosswalks. Because left turns are a particularly tricky maneuver due to visibility issues, left-turn assistance systems can add an extra layer of protection.

By scanning the area surrounding the vehicle, left-turn avoidance systems analyze potential hazards. The sensors can determine the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles and spot pedestrians. This information allows the system to analyze potential risks and alert the driver before a collision occurs.

In the case of an irregular hazard like a collision in an intersection, the crash avoidance system may attempt to warn the driver through visual or auditory queues. If the driver cannot slow down or stop before reaching the hazard, a car with an automatic braking system may be able to stop or divert the vehicle in order to avoid a crash.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Left Turn Assistance Systems:

There are significant benefits to the left-turn assistance systems being implemented today. Key is the ability to be able to detect hazards in the surrounding environment to protect the driver at an intersection with low visibility. Because misjudgment of speed is a common cause of left turn crashes, the system’s speed detection component is also quite useful.

However, there are some important things to remember when it comes to left-turn assistance technology. These safety systems rely heavily on a variety of sensors and cameras. In heavy rain, snow, or fog, the sensors can be disrupted and become less effective. Other obstructions like dirt can lead to false readings that could cause your vehicle to react without reason or fail to detect obstacles.

Even in perfect conditions, it is possible that your crash avoidance technology may fail. Certain hazards might be harder for the sensors to detect, and there are instances where your surroundings can be misinterpreted. These scenarios might cause delayed or failed reactions. Drivers should assume that they may have to react manually and should always be prepared to intervene in traffic situations.

It is often overlooked that drivers should equip themselves with the proper education and training to effectively interact with crash avoidance systems. Drivers should be aware of the limitations and the capabilities of this technology to make informed decisions on the road. Sensor checks, as well as regular maintenance, should be performed to maintain the effectiveness of the systems.

The Risk of Complacency and Overreliance:

It is possible that crash avoidance technology can actually create additional risks in the form of driver complacency and overreliance. Overdependency on crash avoidance systems can cause drivers to pay less attention to the road because they assume that the technology will handle any potential risks. This can lead to delayed reaction times that increase the risk of accidents.

Some drivers make the mistake of assuming that other vehicles on the road are equipped with the same type of crash avoidance technology. Commercial vehicles, as well as older vehicles, tend not to have any crash avoidance technology. In situations where drivers interact with other vehicles, too much reliance on these safety features can create a false expectation of safety. Vigilance and attentiveness are even more important given these factors.

Crash avoidance technology has been hailed as a revolutionizing advancement in the automotive industry. The significant safety benefits have led to a reduction in collision risks. However, we must also be aware of the limitations of this technology. Drivers should always be prepared to take control and maintain their vigilance. Remember vigilance and attentiveness are the most important parts of making a safe left turn.

Left Turn Calming Infrastructure Comes to Chicago

July 28, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Last year, Chicago began to roll out some infrastructure as a part of a trial initiative to enhance traffic safety. The city describes the new implements as “traffic calming.” They include rubber speed bumps, vertical posts, and hardened centerlines. The measures are meant to mitigate risks associated with left turns which are a notoriously dangerous maneuver. The goal is to promote safer speeds, prevent diagonal path crossings, and enhance visibility for pedestrians. In this post, we will go over some of the benefits of these infrastructure enhancements, including their specific features, benefits, and the rationale behind their implementation.

A Closer Look at Chicago’s Left Turn-Calming Infrastructure

Rubber Speed Bumps:

Strategically placed rubber speed bumps are one of the main elements of Chicago’s infrastructure for calming left turns. When approaching and navigating a left turn, the bumps are intended to encourage slower turning speeds. Introducing physical obstacles that necessitate slower speeds can significantly decrease the chance of collisions due to excessive speed or difficulty with maneuvering. Rubber speed bumps are meant to remind drivers to exercise caution and reduce their speed when making left turns, ultimately contributing to improved road safety.

Vertical Posts:

One crucial aspect of guiding drivers during left turns is the implementation of vertical posts. These posts are positioned in intersections to prevent drivers from taking a diagonal path during the left turn. By causing vehicles to adhere to designated paths, the risk of collisions with traffic surrounding the turn is reduced. A safer turning environment is encouraged with these visual cues by discouraging turns that are too narrow or too wide.

Hardened Centerlines:

Chicago’s left turn calming infrastructure also includes the implementation of hardened centerlines at intersections. These lines are positioned in the pavement to demarcate between pedestrian crossing zones and left-turning vehicles. Hardened centerlines improve drivers’ visibility of pedestrians during left turns by providing a clear visual distinction. This allows drivers to anticipate pedestrian movements so that they can prepare to stop at a particular point. Both pedestrians and drivers may benefit from the implementation of hardened center lines.

The Intended Benefits:

Safer Speeds:

Rubber speed bumps are meant to encourage drivers to slow down when making their left turn. Slowing down vehicles provides more time for drivers to react to possible hazards. Safer speeds contribute to a more predictable and controlled driving environment, potentially reducing the severity and frequency of collisions and creating a safer environment for pedestrians, drivers, and passengers.

Enhanced Pedestrian Safety:

The incorporation of vertical posts and hardened centerlines in Chicago’s left turn calming infrastructure is meant to enhance pedestrian safety. Because vertical posts minimize taking shortcuts through crosswalks, potential collisions with cars and pedestrians are decreased. Hardened center lines increase drivers’ visibility and awareness of pedestrians which might be the difference between a safe left turn and a collision. The calming infrastructure promotes greater confidence and security for those crossing intersections by creating a safer pedestrian environment.

Improved Turn Accuracy:

Chicago’s left turn calming infrastructure ensures that drivers follow designated turning paths accurately. Potential encroachment into other lanes or crosswalks is less likely when vertical posts are placed to help drivers position their left turn. Accurate turns reduce the risk of collisions with other vehicles and contribute to a more efficient and harmonious road network.

Reasons for Implementing Left Turn Calming Infrastructure in the First Place:

Mitigating Collision Risks:

Left turns present inherent potential risks and challenges, including driver distraction, excessive speed, and dangerous turning trajectories. By implementing left turn calming infrastructure, Chicago aims to mitigate these risk factors and address the risks of collision. At its core, the initiative is meant to reduce the number of collisions associated with left turns.

Pedestrian Protection:

Chicago’s commitment to pedestrian safety is a driving force behind the implementation of left turn calming infrastructure. Pedestrians face heightened risks when crossing a busy intersection with lots of left-turning vehicles, and vertical posts as well as hardened center lines are meant to reduce these risks.

Enhancing Traffic Efficiency:

The introduction of left turn calming infrastructure also aims to enhance traffic efficiency and flow. By reducing conflicts and promoting accurate turning paths, the initiative intends to reduce congestion and delays caused by left turns. The resulting smooth traffic flow benefits drivers and pedestrians, making the road network more efficient and improving the commuting experience.

While the left turn calming infrastructure implemented in Chicago shows promising results, exploring potential alternatives and advancements is crucial for improving traffic safety. Below are some potential alternatives to consider:

Intersection Warning Systems:

Intersection warning systems can provide real-time alerts to drivers approaching intersections. By using cameras, sensors, and algorithms, intersection warning systems aim to detect pedestrians and vehicles, giving advanced warnings about potential hazards. Drivers have more time to react and make safer decisions during left turns when intersection warning systems are in place

Intelligent Traffic Signal Systems:

There are specific types of signal systems that can help enhance left turn safety. By using real-time traffic data, intelligent traffic signal systems can control signal phases in real-time. This prioritizes safe left turns in order to reduce conflicts with other traffic. Not only can these systems improve safety, but timing signals appropriately can enhance the efficiency of traffic flow.

Through pilot programs and data analysis, it is vital that we consider alternative traffic safety infrastructure so that our intersections can be as safe as possible. When it comes to left turns, intelligent infrastructure that utilizes technology can help to reduce human error.

Chicago’s innovative left turn calming infrastructure, featuring vertical posts, rubber speed bumps, and hardened centerlines, is a good example of an action a city can take to reduce the risks associated with left turns. By preventing diagonal path crossings, improving visibility for pedestrians, and encouraging safer speeds, this initiative aims to reduce collisions, optimize traffic flow, and protect pedestrians. Chicago’s implementation of these traffic-calming treatments is a good first step to creating safer roads in our city. However, more data is needed to assess to effectiveness of this infrastructure, and we must be prepared to pivot and adjust if better options to enhance safety become available. Our city should continue focusing on left turns as a maneuver associated with dangers for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Left Turning Vehicles at Night and the Dangers to Pedestrians

July 24, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

After the sun sets and visibility is low, the dangers to pedestrians increase. One particular danger, left-turning vehicles, is especially acute at night. The risk of a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle during nighttime hours is amplified for several reasons. In this post, we will explore the dangers that pedestrians face when visibility is low, fatigue is heightened, and poor safety infrastructure is in place. By providing practical safety strategies and delving into these dangers, we hope to increase awareness and empower pedestrians to protect themselves when encountering left-turning vehicles.

Limited Visibility

Reduced visibility in nighttime conditions significantly heightens the risks for pedestrians. Driver’s visibility is already compromised when executing left turns because they have to look out for oncoming traffic, so additional visibility restrictions make this maneuver especially dangerous. The potential glare from headlights can also obstruct the driver’s view of the crosswalk, making pedestrians virtually invisible to turning drivers. This contributes to a higher probability of collisions, leading to severe injuries or even tragic fatalities.

Various measures can be implemented to help mitigate these risks. Many intersections could benefit from improved street lighting to help illuminate crosswalks and sidewalks. Additionally, regular maintenance should be performed on lighting infrastructure to make sure they are working properly. Furthermore, installing reflective markers or signage along pedestrian pathways and crosswalks could provide additional guidance and alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians, especially during left turns.

Lack of Pedestrian Infrastructure

The presence of well-designed pedestrian infrastructure plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of those on foot. Inadequate infrastructure can lead to confusion that could cause accidents. Above, we discussed how adequate street lighting can help improve visibility, but there are other forms of infrastructure that need to be maintained. Faded crosswalk markings and malfunctioning pedestrian signals contribute to the vulnerability of pedestrians during left turns.

Municipalities must place a high priority on pedestrian infrastructure to help ensure the safety of pedestrians at night facing left-turning vehicles. This includes installing and maintaining bright and energy-efficient LED streetlights, employing durable and visible crosswalk markings, implementing audible pedestrian signals, and ensuring regular inspections and timely repairs. Furthermore, pedestrian-friendly designs can be implemented at intersections that create adequate separation from vehicle traffic.

Driver Distractions and Impaired Vision

Increased fatigue and potential distractions add to the risks for pedestrians facing left-turning vehicles at night. When the roads are less busy, drivers may be more prone to distractions like using a cell phone. These distractions divert their attention from the road and decrease their ability to spot pedestrians during left turns. This problem is heightened by the fatigue that often comes with driving at night. Additionally, drivers who already have poor vision, perhaps due to age or other factors, may have more trouble seeing at night.

Stricter enforcement of laws surrounding cellphone use is crucial to tackling this issue, as well as making sure drivers are educated about how dangerous it can be to drive tired. Pedestrians should also be aware of these factors and should never assume that a left-turning driver sees them.

Speed and Reaction Time:

Occasionally, drivers may have to make quick decisions to avoid hazards when making left turns. Ideally, drivers would only turn when it is safe to do so, but erratic oncoming traffic may cause drivers to maneuver quickly. In the darkness of night, drivers may misjudge the speed and distance of pedestrians, leading to critical errors. Drivers tend to make left turns more quickly than right turns which can put pedestrians in danger. At nighttime, if drivers are fatigued or visibility is low, reaction times may decrease. This combination of speed and reduced reaction time leaves pedestrians with limited opportunities to react, leaving them susceptible to life-altering accidents.

To alleviate these risks, traffic management strategies must be employed. Implementing lower speed limits at night, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity, can provide drivers with additional time to react and avoid collisions. Speed bumps and other traffic infrastructure can also be effective in reducing the speed at which drivers make left turns.

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Nighttime Left Turns:

While the primary responsibility for ensuring pedestrian safety lies with drivers, pedestrians can take proactive measures to protect themselves when confronted with left-turning vehicles at night. Here are some essential safety tips:

Wear Reflective Clothing: Bright, reflective clothing could be the difference between a driver seeing you and not seeing you at all.
Utilize Flashlights or Phone Lights: It may be useful to have a flashlight or use your phone light to illuminate the ground when crossing to signal your presence to drivers.
Cross at Well-Lit Intersections: If there are multiple intersections you can cross at, it is always best to use a well-lit intersection with proper safety infrastructure.
Make Eye Contact with Drivers: Before crossing, make an effort to establish eye contact with drivers waiting to make a left turn. At nighttime, you may or may not be able to see through a driver’s windshield. But, if possible, try to make sure that the driver sees you.
Stay Alert and Vigilant: When crossing, be sure to avoid distractions like using your phone. Check all directions, even if you have the walk signal. Left-turning drivers may not yield to you.
Use Designated Crosswalks: Cross the street at designated crosswalks whenever possible, as they provide a safer path for pedestrians. Look for well-marked crosswalks equipped with pedestrian-activated flashing lights or audible signals for enhanced safety.
Travel in Groups: Remember, there is strength in numbers. If it is possible to travel with a group, drivers have a better chance of identifying pedestrians in the crosswalk.

Pedestrians face heightened dangers from left-turning vehicles at nighttime. Low visibility, fatigue, distractions, and poor reaction times can result in potentially fatal accidents. As a pedestrian, it is best to “walk defensively,” and refrain from assuming that the left-turning driver is aware of your presence. Although the primary responsibility is on drivers to yield to pedestrians, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Diverging Diamond Interchanges: A Safer Alternative to Left Turns

July 21, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Diverging Diamond Interchanges: A Safer Alternative to Left Turns

It is widely known that making left turns on the road is a particularly hazardous maneuver, particularly in areas with heavy traffic flow. We, as personal injury lawyers who specialize in truck and auto crash cases, understand the severe injuries that may be caused by accidents that involve left turns. However, there is a potential solution that could help reduce these risks: the diverging diamond interchange. Today, we’ll delve into the idea of diverging diamond interchanges and their potential to mitigate the risks involved with making left turns in conventional traffic.

The Dangers of Making a Left Turn in the Traditional Manner.:

Before discussing diverging diamond interchanges, let’s first consider the potential hazards of making a left turn. When making a left turn, drivers often must cross several lanes of oncoming traffic, which leaves little room for error. This type of turn comes with several hazards, such as:

Increased Risk of Collisions: When making a left turn, drivers may be at risk of colliding with oncoming vehicles, particularly if they miscalculate the speed or distance of the approaching traffic.
Visibility Limitations: Making a left turn can be challenging for drivers as they need to estimate the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles using their peripheral vision. Unfortunately, visibility can be compromised due to obstructed views, blind spots, or unfavorable weather conditions, potentially leading to accidents.
Time Constraints: When making a left turn, drivers often have a limited time window due to traffic signals or oncoming traffic. This can cause some drivers to feel rushed and take unnecessary risks.

Introducing the Diverging Diamond Interchange:

The concept of Diverging Diamond Interchanges (DDIs) is a recent development in transportation engineering, aimed at improving intersection efficiency and safety. DDIs are different from traditional interchanges in that they temporarily move traffic to the opposite side of the road. This creates a “crisscross” pattern that makes left turns easier and safer than traditional methods. Some key features of DDIs include:

Crossover Points: Designated crossover points are used to shift traffic to the opposite side of the road, effectively eliminating the need for left turns across oncoming traffic.
Dedicated Turn Lanes: DDIs have designated lanes for left turns at crossover points, providing a clear separation between vehicles turning left and those going straight.
Traffic Signal Optimization: Traffic flow is made smoother, congestion is reduced, and the risk of conflicts between vehicles is minimized by DDIs through the use of well-coordinated traffic signals.

Advantages of Diverging Diamond Interchanges:

Enhanced Safety: One of the main benefits of DDIs is their capacity to increase safety, especially when making left turns. By avoiding the need to turn left across oncoming traffic, DDIs effectively diminish the chances of accidents and lessen possible clashes between vehicles.
Improved Traffic Flow: By reducing the number of signal phases and allowing left-turn movements simultaneously, DDIs optimize traffic flow. This efficient design enhances overall intersection capacity and reduces congestion, resulting in shorter travel times for motorists.
Pedestrian-Friendly Design: Dedicated pedestrian paths and crosswalks are often included in DDIs to provide safety and convenience for pedestrians. The decreased vehicle conflict points and simplified traffic flow create a more effortless pedestrian experience while navigating through the interchange.

Case Studies and Success Stories:

Let’s talk about some real-life examples to illustrate the possible advantages of DDIs:

Springfield, Missouri: The first DDI in the United States was implemented in Springfield, Missouri. It has been extremely successful in reducing accidents, improving traffic flow, and increasing driver satisfaction. Additionally, there has been a significant decrease in left-turn-related incidents since its introduction.
Salt Lake City, Utah: The introduction of a DDI at the I-15/7200 South intersection in Salt Lake City has led to a significant decrease in traffic congestion, enhanced intersection capacity, and improved safety. The triumph of this initiative has encouraged further examination and implementation of DDIs in the surrounding area.

Considerations and Challenges:

Although diverging diamond interchanges can provide significant advantages, it is crucial to recognize the difficulties and factors involved in their execution. Here are some of them:

Costs of Construction: In order to build a DDI, it is usually necessary to make major changes to the infrastructure, such as realigning bridges and roadways. The construction process can be quite intricate and expensive, which means that it requires thorough planning and budgeting.
Driver Familiarity: The implementation of DDIs requires a deviation from the conventional intersection designs, and it might require some time for drivers to adjust to the new traffic patterns. It is essential to have adequate signage, conduct public awareness campaigns, and provide driver education to ensure a seamless transition and make the most of the advantages that DDIs offer.

What is the difference between a DDI and a Displaced Left Turn?

In a previous blog post, we discussed another departure from traditional left turns: the displaced left turn (DLT). The diverging diamond interchange may sound like the displaced left turn, but there are some key differences.

A DDI is a unique intersection design where traffic lanes temporarily shift to the opposite side of the road at the interchange. This innovative design enhances traffic flow and minimizes potential collision areas in comparison to conventional diamond interchanges. The DDI enables vehicles on the crossroad (usually an overpass or underpass) to briefly switch to the opposite side of the road, enabling unobstructed left turns onto the ramps without having to cross oncoming traffic.

On the other hand, a displaced left turn is a traffic design that moves the left-turn movement away from the main intersection. Drivers are directed to a separate lane or signalized intersection before or after the main intersection, instead of making a left turn directly at the intersection. This helps to improve safety by reducing conflicts with through traffic and simplifying the left turn.

While both DDI and DLT designs aim to enhance traffic flow and safety, they employ different approaches and are suited for different types of intersections. DDIs are typically used at freeway interchanges, while DLTs are often implemented at conventional intersections to improve left-turn movements.

One possible solution to the dangers of crossing oncoming traffic is by using diverging diamond interchanges, which offer a viable alternative to traditional left turns. DDIs can improve safety, traffic flow, and create a pedestrian-friendly environment by temporarily redirecting traffic to the opposite side of the road. While their implementation may pose challenges, the success stories from existing DDIs demonstrate their potential to improve intersection design and hopefully make our roadways safer for all users. However, it is extremely important that proper signage and road markings are implemented to reduce driver confusion which could ultimately lead to more collisions.