left turn safety

Uncontrolled Intersections and Left Turns: What You Should Know and How to Approach Them

September 8, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Uncontrolled intersections, those without traffic signals, pavement markings, or stop signs can be daunting for drivers. Uncontrolled intersections are typically seen in rural or residential areas. Attention and caution are of upmost importance when approaching these types of intersections, especially when attempting to make a left turn. In this post we will go over some things to keep in mind when approaching the intersection at which you intend to make your left turn. We will also talk about what you should avoid doing in order to keep yourself and other road-users safe.

Left Turns are Complex and Sometimes Dangerous Maneuvers

Because many of us commonly make left turns during our commutes or other trips, we often forget that they are particularly risky. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the majority of accidents that occur at intersections involve left turns. This is especially concerning when it comes to uncontrolled intersections, as the safeguards provided by signals that indicate a clear right of way are absent.

Things to Keep in Mind when Approaching an Uncontrolled Left Turn

The Full Stop

The absence of stop signs may cause drivers to assume that they can proceed through the intersection without stopping. In fact, it is still important to come to a stop prior to completing your left turn in order to notice any hazards that might be obstructed. Additionally, coming to a full stop can allow for communication with other vehicles in order to avoid a collision.

Yield to Oncoming Traffic

Once you have stopped at the intersection, be sure to look out for oncoming traffic. Like many controlled intersections, uncontrolled intersections require you to yield to oncoming traffic. Be aware that oncoming traffic may not. Oncoming traffic may be closer or moving faster that they appear, so make sure you have plenty of room prior to attempting the turn.

Look Out for Cyclists and Pedestrians

It can not be understated how important it is to keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists. Even if there is a gap in oncoming traffic, there may be a pedestrian in your turn path which would require you to yield for longer. At dawn, dusk, or nighttime, it can be particularly hard to see pedestrians and cyclists.

The Importance of Signaling

It is always important to signal, but it is especially important at uncontrolled intersections. For example, the driver behind you may assume that you plan on proceeding straight through the intersection without slowing down because there is no stop sign. It is important to make it clear that you intend to turn. It is also important that oncoming traffic and pedestrians are aware of your intention to complete a left turn.

Maintain a Safe Speed

One important word to remember when making a left turn in an uncontrolled intersection is “caution.” Even if you come to a complete stop at the intersection prior to completing your turn, you should still make your turn at a safe speed and be prepared to stop if necessary. Your maneuvers should be careful and intentional so other drivers can predict your actions.

Consider Road Surface Conditions

Potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces can affect your vehicle’s handling. Because many uncontrolled intersections are in rural areas, you may be faced with a dirt or gravel road. Remember that your vehicle may not have the same traction on different surfaces, and you should adjust your speed and handling accordingly.

Plan Ahead

If you know that your route requires you to make your left turn at an uncontrolled intersection, it is best to plan on maintaining extra vigilance and caution. When you approach the intersection, be prepared to communicate with other vehicles.

Things to Avoid when Approaching an Uncontrolled Left Turn

Assuming the Right of Way

A common error at uncontrolled intersections is assuming the right of way when it doesn’t belong to you. Always remember that the driver who arrives first or the driver on the right has the right of way. Do not assume that you can proceed safely until you have a clear sense of the other driver’s intentions. Even if you do have the right of way, other drivers may be confused. In this case, it is important to remember defensive driving techniques.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

In any case, driving aggressively is risky and poses a danger to other drivers. At uncontrolled intersections, drivers need to be aware of the intentions of other road users. If you choose to approach the intersection aggressively and make your left turn quickly, you risk potentially colliding with another driver who also does not plan on stopping or yielding.

Avoid Intersection Blocking

One reason that it is important to come to a complete stop prior to completing your turn is to avoid obstructing the intersection. You should only attempt to make your left turn when you are confident it is safe to do so, otherwise you may find yourself stopped in the middle of the intersection blocking other traffic.

Do Not Neglect Blind Spots

Prior to initiating your left turn, be aware of any obstructions that could be in your blind spot. Other drivers may attempt to pull beside you, or pedestrians could be passing through your blind spot. If you do not check your blind spot, you may be unaware that your turn could pose a danger to others.

Weather and Hazardous Conditions

Like any other driving scenario, you should adjust your driving as conditions change. If it is raining and visibility is limited, for example, you should reduce your speed when approaching the intersection and completing your maneuver. Failing to do so could cause a collision with another driver who is also struggling with reduced visibility.

A Culture of Safe Driving

Driving safely requires consideration for others on the road. In the case of an uncontrolled intersection, drivers are required to employ extra vigilance. Assuming the right of way, driving too quickly, and general confusion could result in a collision. When completing a left turn at an uncontrolled intersection, remember to keep traffic safety in mind and drive defensively.

Navigating the Challenges of Commercial Vehicles and Left Turns

August 28, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Due to their size and weight, left turn accidents involving commercial vehicles can be particularly dangerous. It is crucial that, in order to improve road safety, we understand the unique challenges that these vehicles encounter when attempting a left turn. In this post, we will talk about some of these specific difficulties, the risks posed by these challenges, and explore strategies to avoid accidents when it comes to left turns involving large vehicles.

The Scale and Size of Commercial Vehicles

Because commercial vehicles are typically much larger and heavier than other vehicles on the road, left turn maneuvers are made more complex. Buses, delivery trucks, and tractor trailers, tend to be longer, creating a wider turn radius which may cause the vehicle to encroach upon other lanes when making the turn. This not only poses a risk to motorists, but also to pedestrians and cyclists who may be caught in the blind spot of a left-turning commercial vehicle.

Another factor that is exacerbated by the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles is the force of impact in the event of a collision This could cause more severe property damage and injuries when an accident occurs.

Limitations due to Turning Radius

Drivers of commercial vehicles face challenges when turning due to their limited turn radius. Commercial trucks and buses require additional space when turning. Drivers may find it difficult to keep from crossing into adjacent lanes when navigating tight left turns in narrow intersections. In this situation, commercial vehicles risk colliding with unsuspecting vehicles or pedestrians as well as the surrounding infrastructure.

Lack of Visibility

Another risk associated with the sheer size of commercial vehicles is large blind spots. For example, the length of these vehicles can obstruct the view of pedestrians and vehicles behind them. If drivers fail to spot vehicles and pedestrians in the surrounding area, there is an increased risk of a collision occurring when the driver attempts to complete the left turn.

Off-Tracking and Trailer Swing

Off-tracking and trailer swing are two risk factors specific to turning commercial vehicles. A truck making a left turn will swing wider from the rear of the trailer, potentially colliding with other vehicles or pedestrians. Off-tracking is when the rear wheels of a long truck take a different path from the front of the truck, creating the potential for the trailer to collide with adjacent lanes.

Stopping Power and Braking Distance

One risk factor associated with the weight of commercial vehicles comes from the additional stopping power and braking distance required to come to a full stop. When compared to passenger cars, large trucks need more time and distance to come to a complete stop. Drivers of commercial vehicles should anticipate the need to brake early when approaching the left turn lane. And should be going slow enough to come to a complete stop if the left turn cannot be completed.

Pedestrians Zones and Tight Urban Spaces

Congested traffic spaces create additional risks for all drivers and pedestrians, but this risk is magnified when it comes to commercial vehicles. If you are driving a passenger vehicle, it may be appropriate to give large vehicles extra space to allow them to maneuver a tight left turn. The surrounding congestion could cause commercial vehicles to get dangerously close to nearby vehicles when making a left turn.

Delivery Pressures and Time Constraints

One factor that isn’t specific to left turns comes from the tight time constraints that commercial drivers face. Though left turns are particularly dangerous when approached hastily by commercial vehicles, other road users should be cautious around commercial vehicles in general because drivers are often incentivized to get to their destination more quickly.

Mitigating Left Turn Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles

Education and Driver Training:

It is extremely important that proper training is provided for commercial drivers. Drivers of large vehicles should complete practical exercises involving left turns to become more familiar with the turn radius required to complete the turn safely. Lack of training can significantly increase the risk of a dangerous collision.

Improved Vehicle Technology:

As driver assistance technology continues to advance, commercial vehicles should be equipped with technology that could increase safety for everyone on the road. Blindspot assistance technology could be particularly helpful for left turns involving commercial vehicles.

Planning Routes:

Commercial drivers should be encouraged to plan their routes with potentially dangerous left turns in mind. If an intersection is particularly tight, the route should avoid turning at this intersection if possible. UPS, for example, has implemented a system which almost completely avoids left turns to mitigate the dangers associated with this complex maneuver.

Driving Defensively:

It is important that commercial drivers anticipate the actions of other drivers, as well as changing traffic conditions. When making a left turn, it is extremely important that drivers of large vehicles do not assume that passenger vehicles will give the truck enough space to complete the turn safely. Commercial drivers should maintain awareness of their surroundings and refrain from making the left turn unless they are confident that they have enough room to complete the turn.

Regular Vehicle Maintenance:

While not specific to left turns, regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for the safety of commercial drivers and passenger vehicles. Drivers of large vehicles should make sure their vehicle is safe to drive by completing frequent inspections and getting repairs if needed.

Collaboration with Urban Planners:

Urban planners should collaborate with commercial driving companies in order to build infrastructure that is safe for large vehicles. By sharing data and insights, infrastructure can be built with left turn challenges in mind to mitigate the risks associated with wide turn radii and blind spots.

Left turn collisions associated with commercial vehicles have the potential to cause serious injuries and infrastructure damage. One way to help mitigate these risks is to be aware of the factors that make left turns difficult for large vehicles.

Commercial drivers and drivers of passenger vehicles should drive with these risks in mind. It is important that commercial drivers only attempt a left turn maneuver if they are confident that it is safe to do so. Drivers of passenger vehicles should be aware that a truck will require a wider turn radius and should give commercial vehicles the appropriate amount of space when possible. By working together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.

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!

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.