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traffic safety

Turning Left in a Construction Zone: What you Need to Know to Stay Safe

September 4, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Navigating a left turn can be challenging under any circumstance, but this maneuver can be especially difficult when construction is involved. As a personal injury law firm specializing in auto and truck crash cases, we know how important it is to be aware of all of the risks when attempting a potentially dangerous driving maneuver. In this post, we want to bring your attention to some of the things you should keep top-of-mind when you approach a left turn in a construction zone. We will also touch on what not to do in this scenario. Being aware of the potential dangers that left turns in construction zones pose can help reduce your risk of an accident.

Remember to Look Out for Construction Workers and Flaggers

The influx of activity in construction zones makes them especially dynamic and potentially unpredictable. The attentiveness of drivers is largely responsible for safety on the roads in general. When you are near construction of approaching a construction zone when you intend to make your left turn (or any maneuver for that matter), there are a few things you should remember to do:

  • Reduce Your Speed

Gradually slow down as you approach a construction zone and be prepared to come to a complete stop if you must.

  • Look Out for Flaggers

Flaggers may be trying to bring your attention to signs and signals. Make sure to keep an eye out for them and be careful to give them room. Their primary goal is to maintain a smooth traffic flow and direct drivers safely.

  • Keep an Eye Out for Pedestrians

Remember that construction workers are afforded the right of way according to traffic laws. Construction zones may have many workers on foot in or around the road. Be careful and proceed with caution.

Construction Zone Traffic Patterns may be Altered

Construction zones are characterized by temporary traffic patterns, lane shifts, and detours that can be disorienting for drivers. Before making a left turn, keep in mind that the flow of traffic may be altered. Be aware of these changes and familiarize yourself with any new rules. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Follow the Signs

Construction zones are marked by a multitude of signs and lane markings that provide guidance on how to navigate the area. Drive with caution and look out for these indicators for guidance as to how to proceed with your maneuver. There may be signs specific to left turns and how to navigate them.

  • Stay in Designated Lanes

Last minute lane changes and abrupt maneuverers can be dangerous in construction zones. It is important that you stay and your lane and follow the designated signage with regard to lane changes.

  • Keep a Safe Following Distance

While the intersection may look clear enough to proceed with your left turn, sudden stops or changes in traffic patterns frequently occur in construction zones. It is important to keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you to avoid a collision.

What NOT to Do

Just as crucial as understanding what to do when completing a left turn in a construction area is understanding what NOT to do. Here are some things to avoid when approaching your left turn:

  • Steer Clear of Distractions

Construction zones require your full attention. That means refraining from using your phone, fiddling with your radio, or becoming otherwise distracted.

  • Respect Speed Limits

Even if the speed limit feels slower than normal in a construction zone, it is important to respect the new limits. Making your turn at a reduced speed is not only for your safety, but for the safety of the workers in your area.

  • Don’t Assume Usual Rules Apply

You may not have the right of way to complete your left turn even if the oncoming traffic has cleared. Make sure you are aware of any new rules and regulations imposed to protect you and the surrounding construction workers.

  • Avoid Aggressive Driving

There is never an appropriate time to drive aggressively, but construction zones and intersections are certainly particularly dangerous. Instead of driving aggressively, exercise caution.

Some Additional Things to Remember:

  • Prepare for Possible Delays

One way to reduce the stress and frustration that comes with traffic delays is to anticipate them beforehand. If you intend to drive through an area that in under construction, be aware that the speed limits will be reduced which may cause congestion. You will often experience delays.

  • Use Your Vehicle’s Signals Properly

If you intend to make your left turn in an area with construction, it is vitally important that you use your turn signal. This not only signals your intention to the drivers behind you (who may be impatient and unprepared to slow down), but also to the workers who may intend to cross your path of traffic. It is also extremely important that oncoming traffic is aware that you intend to turn because they may also be confused about temporary traffic rules.

  • Be Prepared for Sudden Stops

Sudden stops are part of the reason that speed limits are reduced in construction zones. These stops can occur anywhere, not just before you intend to turn. In this scenario, remember to maintain a safe following distance and drive with caution.

  • Stay Informed About Road Conditions

Next time you reach this construction zone, you may be surprised to find that left turns are no longer allowed are the lane positions have changed. Remember that road conditions under construction are constantly evolving and may change from time to time.

Being aware of the common mistakes that people when in construction zones can make your left turn safer and encourage you to proceed with caution. One important thing to remember is that left turns may not be permitted in the intersection under construction. If that is the case, proceed along the legal route until you can safely reroute. Keep in mind that construction workers, flaggers, signage, barriers, and other potential variables should be taken into account when attempting any maneuver in a construction zone, especially left turns.

The Psychological Factors that Make Left Turns More Risky

September 1, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Every day, drivers navigate busy intersections and face left turns in heavy traffic. Left turns are one of the riskiest maneuvers drivers can face, and they often lead to accidents. Emphasis is often placed on the infrastructure that makes left turns more difficult, but it is also important to talk about the psychological factors that contribute to left turn accidents. In previous posts, we touched on the many variables that can make left turns difficult. In this post, we will delve deeper into the psychological demands that this multi-variable maneuver requires. When it comes to left turns, drivers should be aware of common mental mistakes that can lead to accidents.

  • Misjudgment of Distance and Speed

One of the most pervasive mistakes when it comes to left turns is the misjudgment of the speed and distance of oncoming traffic. Drivers may feel they have enough space to make the left turn, when in reality the oncoming vehicles are much closer and moving much faster than they appear. Some of the factors that contribute to this issue include the size of the oncoming vehicle and weather/visibly conditions. Drivers would be served best by assuming that oncoming traffic is closer than they perceive, and drivers should give themselves extra space prior to making their left turns.

  • Inattentional Blindness

There is a common phenomenon where drivers fail to notice oncoming vehicles due to distractions or divided attention. This is called inattentional blindness, and it often plays a role in left turn accidents. Though inattentional blindness can occur because of the divided attention that drivers may place on the multiple variables during left turns, inattentional blindness is more commonly associated with unnecessary distractions like cell phone usage. In order to stay safe on the road, it is extremely important that drivers refrain from using their cell phones or other devices. All of the driver’s attention should be on your surroundings in the intersection.

  • Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is a cognitive phenomenon that often leads drivers to believe they can safely complete a left turn, even in hazardous conditions. This type of bias can contribute to accidents in many ways, but one common instance of confirmation bias occurs when drivers who have made a left turn safely in an intersection approach the same intersection with overconfidence. Even if a driver has completed the turn before, the driver should always approach left turns with caution and make all of the necessary checks before attempting the turn. Confirmation bias can also contribute to inattention blindness and other psychological phenomenon that contribute to left turn accidents.

  • Overestimating the Right of Way

Overestimating one’s right-of-way can result in perilous left-turn situations. It is important to understand your local traffic laws so that you are familiar with when the right of way applies to you, and when you should be prepared to yield. One example of how a driver could overestimate the right of way is making the assumption that a green light means the absolute right of way. When making a left turn, a green light does not mean that the driver shouldn’t be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic. More commonly, drivers might miss important yield signs of they are not paying close attention.

  • Spatial Awareness

Spatial awareness, is a critical aspect of executing safe left turns that is often underestimated. Though spatial awareness plays a role in judging the speed and distance of oncoming traffic, there are other ways that warped spatial awareness can contribute to accidents. One common example occurs at intersections where there are multiple adjacent left turn lanes. Drivers must have good awareness of their turn radius, and be sure to turn into their target lane to avoid encroaching on other traffic. It is important not to turn too tight or too wide.

  • Pressure Affects Decision Making

Especially in heavy traffic, making a left turn requires cautious yet swift decision making. One common scenario where pressure make affect a driver’s ability to make safe decisions is when there is a backup of traffic in the left turn lane. Drivers might feel pressured to complete an unsafe turn when they feel pressure from behind them. Making a left turn too hastily can cause a T-bone collision with oncoming traffic. Drivers should remember that defensive driving is the safest way to drive, and it is always appropriate to wait for a safe gap in traffic prior to completed the left turn.

  • Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions can be different than the external distractions that can lead to inattention blindness. Cognitive distractions might include daydreaming or other mental preoccupations. Simply put, left turns require the driver’s full attention to complete them in the safest manner. Especially in heavy traffic, drivers should refrain from driving habitually and instead make all maneuvers intentionally and with heightened awareness.

  • Impaired Judgement from Fatigue

Fatigue or impaired judgement from substance use makes all road maneuvers much more dangerous. Left turns, in particular, require special attention because of all of the moving variables involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, states that about 72,000 annually accidents are caused by driver fatigue. Some researchers have suggested that this is a gross underestimate, and that many more accidents each year are caused by fatigue. Drivers should be aware that it is best to pull over and take a break if you are tired.

There are many improvements that could be made to our intersection infrastructure to make left turns safer. It is also important for drivers to be aware of the psychological factors that could make left turns more dangerous. Understanding that there could be gaps in judgement when completed a complex maneuver like a left turn could encourage drivers to approach complicated traffic scenarios with caution. Remember, driving defensively requires drivers to anticipate risks in order to react and adjust.

One basic rule of thumb is to approach left turns with caution and attention. Drivers should refrain from making hasty decisions, especially when it comes to crossing lanes of oncoming traffic.

Approaching Yellow Lights During Left Turns: Navigating Intersection Waiting with Safety in Mind

August 26, 2023 by Levinson and Stefani Leave a Comment

Yellow lights can pose unique challenges for drivers making left turns, especially when they find themselves waiting in the intersection for ongoing traffic to pass before completing the turn. As personal injury attorneys specializing in truck and auto crash cases, we understand how important it is to make informed choices on the road. In this post, we will talk about some of the factors involved in deciding what to do if the light turns yellow while you are already waiting in the intersection during a left turn. By going over some tips and tricks, we hope to illuminate this issue and provide valuable insights for safely navigating this scenario.

Understanding the Purpose of Yellow Lights:

Before discussing how to approach yellow lights during left turns, it’s crucial to understand their purpose. Yellow lights serve as the transition phase between green and red, signaling drivers of an upcoming red light. For drivers already waiting in the intersection during a left turn, a yellow light serves as a warning to proceed with caution and prepare to complete the turn.

The Intersection Dilemma:

When a light turns yellow and a driver is already in an intersection in anticipation of making a left turn, they face a critical decision: should they complete the turn or wait for more traffic to pass? To make an informed choice, we must consider several factors, including adherence to traffic laws and overall safety considerations. Below, we will go over these aspects in more detail.

  • The Basic Rule: When waiting in the intersection during a left turn and the light turns yellow, the basic rule is to prioritize safety above all else. When turning, it’s best to only do so if it doesn’t put other traffic in danger or block their path. If it is safe to complete the turn, it’s recommended to do so quickly and smoothly to keep traffic moving and prevent accidents from occurring. However, left turns should always be executed with caution and awareness of pedestrians. If you must wait for more oncoming traffic to pass until the light turns red, be sure to remain focused and complete your turn as soon as it is safe to do so.
  • Considering the Law: Local laws may vary concerning left turns at yellow lights, so it’s essential to be familiar with your jurisdiction’s regulations. If a driver is waiting to make a left turn and has already entered the intersection when the light turns yellow, they are allowed to finish the turn even if the light turns red. However, it’s important for drivers to be careful and give way to oncoming traffic that has the right of way. It is crucial to remain cautious even though the situation can be stressful.

Factors to Consider When Completing a Left Turn at a Yellow Light in the Intersection:

When deciding whether to complete a left turn at a yellow light while already in the intersection, drivers should consider the following factors:

  • Oncoming Traffic: Before completing a left turn, it is important to assess the speed and distance of oncoming traffic. If the oncoming vehicles are at a safe distance and it won’t disrupt their flow, proceeding through the intersection is recommended. Nonetheless, exercise caution and be ready to yield if the oncoming traffic is approaching quickly or if there is uncertainty about their intentions.
  • Intersection Clearance Time: Assess the time remaining for the yellow light to transition to red. If there is sufficient time to safely complete the turn before the light changes, proceeding promptly might be a safer option. However, avoid rushing through the left turn, as that could lead to collisions or conflicts with other vehicles.
  • Pedestrians and Other Road Users: Be mindful of pedestrians and other road users, ensuring their safety when completing the left turn. Remember to always yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and avoid blocking other drivers’ routes. In case there are pedestrians crossing, it is important to wait for them to safely clear the intersection before proceeding. This ensures the safety of both pedestrians and drivers on the road.
  • Traffic Flow and Following Laws: Consider the overall traffic flow and adhere to local traffic laws. If making a left turn would result in traffic disruptions or a violation of traffic regulations, it is advisable to wait for the next green light. This is especially true if the intersection is already congested, as completing the turn could cause further traffic congestion and unsafe conditions for other drivers. However, if you are already in the intersection waiting to make your turn, proceed through the turn with caution when it is safe to do so.
  • Intersection Visibility: Evaluate the visibility of the intersection and potential hazards. If there are obstructions or poor visibility due to weather conditions, it may be safer to make your left turn at another intersection.
  • Your Vehicle’s Position: Consider the position of your vehicle at the intersection. If you find yourself in a position where completing a turn safely is challenging due to your angle, it might be a better decision to wait for the next green light. This way, you can avoid any potential collisions and ensure your safety. However, if you have already pulled into the intersection in anticipation of your turn, you will likely have to wait for a safe gap in traffic and proceed with your turn.

Some Extra Tips for Left Turns at Yellow Lights While in the Intersection:

  • Stay focused and vigilant, avoiding distractions while in the intersection. Keep your attention on the road and anticipate the actions of other drivers and pedestrians. Cell phones are a common distraction, and using cell phones can be especially dangerous at intersections.
  • Anticipate signal changes and be prepared to complete the left turn promptly if the light turns yellow. Avoid hesitating excessively, as this can lead to confusion for other road users. However, remember not to act too hastily and keep an eye out for pedestrians. Being aware of signal changes as they occur can help you find a balance between hesitating too much and turning too hastily.
  • Communicate your intentions to other drivers by using turn signals and hand gestures when necessary. Clear and consistent signaling helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes safer driving behavior. Signals are especially important during left turns which are inherently risky maneuvers.
  • Remain aware of surrounding traffic conditions, anticipating potential hazards. Continuously scan the intersection and check for any sudden changes in traffic patterns. Also, be aware of pedestrians in the crosswalk.
  • Prioritize safety and cooperation with other road users when making a left turn. If making the turn could lead to a risky situation, it’s advisable to hold back and wait to turn until it is safe to do so.

If a driver is in the middle of a left turn and the traffic light changes to yellow, safety should be the top priority. If there is no risk of blocking traffic or breaking traffic rules, it is usually best to continue through the intersection. However, it is important for drivers to be careful, yield to other vehicles, and watch out for pedestrians and other people using the road. Being a knowledgeable and responsible driver is essential for promoting safety on the road. Always remember to prioritize safety and make informed decisions to ensure a safe and secure driving experience 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!

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.

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