Unfortunately, intersection crashes are common in bustling cities like Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. These accidents are not just minor inconveniences; they can cause severe injuries and sometimes change lives forever. Everyone needs to understand why these crashes happen, how to avoid them, and what to do if you’re involved in one in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates today at (717) 231-1640 to schedule a free consultation with a Harrisburg intersection crash attorney. Our Harrisburg intersection crash lawyers are here for you every step of the way.
Table of Contents
How Marzzacco Niven & Associates Can Help After an Intersection Crash in Harrisburg
If you were injured in an intersection crash in Harrisburg, PA, you may be facing medical bills, property repairs, lost wages, and more. While this is a challenging time, you are not alone. Our Harrisburg personal injury lawyers can help make this process easier for you.
When you hire us, our Harrisburg car accident lawyers can do the following:
- Investigate
- Gather evidence
- Negotiate for a settlement
- Represent you at trial
Contact us today for a free consultation with a Harrisburg intersection crash attorney.
Why Do Intersection Crashes Happen?
Intersection crashes can occur for a variety of reasons. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common causes:
Running Red Lights
One major reason crashes happen at intersections is when drivers don’t follow the traffic signals. For instance, if a driver doesn’t stop for a red light or rolls through a stop sign, it sets up a situation where they could hit another car crossing the intersection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tells us that running red lights is a significant cause of many deaths and injuries every year in the United States.
Distractions and DUI
Nowadays, many drivers are tempted to use their phones while driving—whether it’s to send a text, check a map, or make a call. Even if you’re talking on a hands-free device, it can still distract you. These distractions can take your eyes and mind off the road, increasing the chances of missing signals or the actions of other drivers. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also a common cause of intersection crashes.
Speeding
Speeding is another common reason why accidents occur at intersections. When you’re going too fast, you don’t have enough time to react if the light changes suddenly or if a car in front of you stops quickly. This makes it much easier to cause or get involved in a crash.
Bad Weather Conditions
In Harrisburg, the weather can change quickly, bringing rain, snow, and fog. These weather conditions can make roads slippery, reducing your car’s traction. Fog and heavy rain can also reduce visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see traffic lights, road signs, or other vehicles, which increases the likelihood of an accident.
Poorly Designed Intersections
Sometimes, the layout of an intersection itself can be confusing. If there are a lot of lanes merging together or unclear road markings and signage, drivers might get confused about who has the right of way. This confusion can cause drivers to make hasty or wrong decisions, leading to crashes.
Understanding these causes can help all drivers be more cautious, pay closer attention, and adjust their driving accordingly to help prevent intersection crashes. By being aware of these risks, everyone can contribute to safer roads in Harrisburg.
How to Prevent Intersection Crashes
Making intersections safer in Harrisburg is an important goal, and there are several simple, practical steps that can be taken to achieve this. Let’s dive deeper into how each of these measures can help:
Better Traffic Lights
One effective way to enhance intersection safety is by improving traffic lights. Adding features like longer yellow lights or countdown timers can give drivers better information about when the light will change. This allows them to make smarter decisions about stopping or going.
Clear Road Signs
Updating and adding road signs at intersections is another important step. Signs that clearly indicate speed limits, upcoming intersections, and pedestrian crossings can alert drivers to slow down and be more cautious.
Roundabouts
Installing roundabouts instead of traditional intersections can be a great way to reduce crashes. Roundabouts force drivers to slow down and pay attention as they navigate the circular path. They also eliminate the possibility of T-bone collisions, which are common when drivers run red lights.
Driver Education Programs
Educating drivers on safe driving practices is crucial. Programs or workshops can teach drivers about the importance of paying attention at all times, especially at intersections. They can also emphasize the dangers of speeding and using phones while driving.
Community Awareness Campaigns
Schools, communities, and local organizations can create awareness campaigns to emphasize safe driving within the city. These could use billboards, social media, and local events to spread the message.
Practice Driving Tests
Offering practice driving tests that simulate various intersection scenarios can help new drivers learn how to react properly in different situations. Experienced drivers could also benefit from refreshers.
More Traffic Police
Increasing the number of traffic police officers at busy or dangerous intersections can be very effective. When drivers know that police are present, they are less likely to break traffic laws such as running red lights or speeding.
Automated Enforcement
In addition to officers, using automated systems like traffic cameras can catch violators even when police aren’t around. These cameras can record cars that run red lights or speed, leading to fines that discourage such behavior.
Publicizing Penalties
Letting the public know about the penalties for breaking intersection rules can also act as a deterrent. When people understand the consequences—like hefty fines or points on their license—they may be less likely to take risks.
By implementing these strategies, Harrisburg can create a safer driving environment for everyone. Improving infrastructure, educating drivers, and enforcing laws are key steps that can significantly reduce the number of intersection crashes and make the daily commute a safer experience.
Contact Our Harrisburg Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Intersection crashes in Harrisburg, PA, are a real danger affecting many people yearly. Understanding why these crashes happen and how to prevent them can make our streets safer. Yet, when accidents occur, knowing the steps to take and seeking expert legal guidance can make a significant difference in dealing with their consequences. Being informed and cautious is vital to keeping yourself and others safe at intersections.
Contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates today at (717) 231-1640 to schedule a free consultation with a Harrisburg intersection crash lawyer.