A broadside collision, often called a T-bone accident, is when the front of one vehicle slams into the side of another. These accidents can be incredibly dangerous because the side of a car offers less protection than the front or rear, leading to a higher risk of serious injury.
So, where do broadside collisions most commonly occur? The answer is intersections. Intersections are particularly risky, but we’ll get into why in a bit.
This article will dive into the reasons why intersections and other specific locations are prone to broadside collisions, the factors that contribute to these accidents, and what steps you can take to help prevent them. We’ll also explore the data and statistics to understand the scope of this problem.
The role of intersections in broadside collisions
Intersections can be risky places for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Here’s what you should know.
Intersections: High-risk zones
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates that one-quarter of all traffic fatalities and one-half of all traffic injuries happen at intersections. Almost half of traffic accidents at intersections are angular or broadside collisions, the FHWA reports. NHTSA estimates that a whopping 40% of all car crashes take place at intersections.
Why are intersections so risky?
- They’re places where multiple vehicles converge from different directions.
- There’s a high likelihood of driver error and misjudgments.
- Pedestrians and cyclists are in the mix.
Intersection features that contribute to broadside collisions
Certain aspects of intersections can increase the chances of a broadside collision.
Left-hand turns
Left turns across traffic are notorious for causing collisions. Drivers may incorrectly gauge the speed and distance of oncoming cars, leading to dangerous situations.
Lack of proper traffic signals or signage
Traffic signals that aren’t working correctly can cause confusion and raise the risk of accidents. If signs are missing or hard to see, drivers might fail to yield or stop as they should.
Other Common Locations for Broadside Collisions
While intersections are prime spots for broadside crashes, they’re not the only places these collisions happen. Here are a couple of other locations where you should be especially vigilant.
Parking Lots
Parking lots, with their maze of parked cars, present their own set of challenges. Visibility is often limited, and drivers backing out of parking spaces may not see you coming. And let’s not forget the pedestrians! Parking lots are bustling with people, increasing the risk of collisions involving both vehicles and pedestrians.
High-Speed Areas with Merging and Turning Points
Merging onto highways and freeways can be a nail-biting experience, and it’s also a common setup for a broadside collision. Drivers may misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic or find themselves with too little space to merge safely. Similarly, drivers slowing down to make a turn across traffic on a high-speed road are vulnerable to a broadside impact from a driver who isn’t paying attention.
Common causes of broadside collisions
Unfortunately, T-bone accidents are often the result of driver error. Here are some common factors that contribute to these types of crashes:
Driver error
In many cases, broadside collisions happen because a driver fails to yield the right-of-way. By law, drivers must yield the right-of-way to others in certain situations. For example, when a driver is turning left, they must yield to oncoming traffic. Or when entering a roadway from a driveway or parking lot, the driver must yield to vehicles already on the road. Failing to do so is a major cause of broadside collisions.
Another common error is running red lights and stop signs. Disregarding traffic signals is a leading cause of intersection accidents, including T-bone crashes.
Speeding or reckless driving also play a role. When a driver is traveling at an excessive speed, they have less time to react to changing conditions. Excessive speed also increases the severity of a collision. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and weaving in and out of traffic, also contribute to broadside accidents.
Driver impairment
Distracted driving is a significant factor in broadside collisions. Using a cell phone, texting, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities can impair a driver’s ability to react to hazards. Even hands-free devices can be distracting, as they divert the driver’s attention from the road.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) is another major cause of broadside collisions. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time, making it more difficult for drivers to avoid accidents.
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Fatigue can impair driving performance, leading to slower reaction times and decreased awareness.
Environmental factors
Poor visibility can also contribute to broadside collisions. Rain, fog, snow, and darkness reduce visibility, making it more difficult for drivers to see other vehicles and hazards. In adverse conditions, it’s crucial to slow down and increase following distance.
Poorly maintained roads can also play a role. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. When roads are in disrepair, it’s more difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.
How to avoid broadside collisions
The most important thing you can do to avoid a broadside collision is drive defensively. This means always being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards – especially at intersections and in parking lots. Maintaining a safe following distance gives you more time to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
Here are some specific tips for avoiding T-bone crashes:
- At intersections: Approach with caution, even if you have the right of way. Slow down and scan the intersection thoroughly before proceeding. Make sure you have a clear view of cross-traffic before making a turn.
- In parking lots: Drive slowly and be extra cautious. Watch out for pedestrians and other vehicles, especially those backing out of parking spaces. Always check your mirrors and blind spots before backing up.
- In bad weather: Slow down, increase your following distance, and turn on your headlights, even during the day. Reduced visibility makes it harder to see oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a broadside collision.
Conclusion
Broadside collisions, sometimes called T-bone accidents, are frighteningly common, especially at intersections. As we’ve seen, these accidents often happen at intersections with traffic signals or stop signs, but they can also occur in parking lots, on residential streets, and even on highways when one car crosses into another’s lane.
Because driver error is the most frequent cause of broadside collisions, it’s up to each of us to commit to safe and responsible driving habits. Defensive driving, which means staying aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards, can significantly reduce your risk. So can following all traffic laws, including speed limits and right-of-way rules.
When you get behind the wheel, make safety your top priority. By staying vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can help prevent these dangerous collisions and protect yourself and others on the road.