With intersections being navigated not only by motorists, but also by pedestrians and bicyclists, it is easy to see why 43% of all motor vehicle accidents occur in such locations.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “vehicle collisions often occur at intersections because these are the locations where two or more roads cross each other, and activities such as turning left, crossing over, and turning right have the potential for conflicts resulting in crashes.”
Why Do Intersection Accidents Happen?
There are a number of other factors that can contribute to these accidents, including:
- Poor road design
- Drivers who don’t timely see approaching cars
- Low and high-speed adjustment
- Aggressive driving
These mistakes can lead to T-bone crashes, rear-end collisions, head on-collisions and sideswipes. To avoid becoming an accident statistic, minimize distractions, pay attention to your surroundings, approach intersections slowly and with caution, and once you commit to go through the intersection, do so quickly.
Red Light Cameras in New York
Many municipalities are working with the NHTSA and the Federal Highway Administration to tackle the challenges involved in improved road safety for intersections. One way is with the installation of red light cameras. Currently, there are red light cameras operating in Yonkers, New Rochelle and White Plains, with the most recent request for cameras from the Village of Pelham Manor.
The bill, which passed both the state Assembly and Senate, is now waiting for the Governor’s signature. The installation of these red light cameras in Pelham Manor would be at the intersection known as the Village’s Four Corners. According to Village Manager, John Pierpont, “With turning movements and waiting for turning movements and bus stops and other activities that happen at that intersection I think that at times people can become impatient and act in a way they probably shouldn’t.” He added, “And hopefully this will convince them that’s not a good idea.”
Encouraged by the initial approval for red light cameras in Pelham Manor, surrounding towns and villages are watching closely for Pelham Manor’s final approval, at which time more requests will be headed to Albany.
