Whether you walk on a street in your neighborhood, bike in the center of the road or near the curb, or drive on a roadway in our city, you’ll cross at least one intersection. As Indianapolis car accident attorneys we wrote this article to help you identify, navigate, and report dangerous intersections to protect our neighbors.

If you’ve been injured in Indianapolis city limits or the surrounding area, call the Poynter & Bucheri Accident Recovery team at 1-800-265-9881 for assistance. 

What Makes An Intersection Dangerous?

City intersections are pivotal points in our urban infrastructure and also common locations for accidents. From traffic convergence to conflicting movements and visibility challenges, these junctions often require a traffic signal, pedestrian signal, and signs with special directions installed in visible places.

Reasons Accidents Happen When You’re Walking or Driving Through Intersections

Convergence of traffic.

Intersections bring together drivers trying to get to different destinations, forcing drivers to navigate complex traffic flows without forgetting to signal their movement across lanes.

Conflicting movements, such as left and right turns, straight-ahead traffic, and pedestrian crossings.

The more complex the intersection, the more the risk of misjudgments and collisions as drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists negotiate these conflicting paths increases.

Limited vision due to obstacles like buildings and parked cars.

Buildings, parked cars, and other barriers obstructing your view make it difficult to see others on the road and increase the likelihood of accidents.

Limited sightlines for auto and pedestrian traffic.

The obstructed visibility poses challenges for a driver or and pedestrian, creating situations where individuals don’t realize others are present, heightening the risk of collisions.

Higher risk for misjudgments and errors at complex intersections.

Complex intersections (like those at schools, flashing lights, and heavy pedestrian traffic) increase the likelihood of mistakes and misjudgments that lead to accidents and collisions.

Potential violations of traffic rules, including running a traffic signal, pedestrian signal, or failing to yield.

Despite the presence of traffic control devices and a pedestrian signal on most city streets, human errors cause accidents. Common causes include running red traffic signals, misreading street signs, failing to signal, and failing to yield the right of way when you drive or walk.

Inherent human errors that traffic control devices cannot eliminate.

The human element introduces an inherent risk at intersections, and while traffic control devices aim to regulate behavior, they cannot eliminate the potential for driver error, even for a responsible driver.

Increased prevalence of distracted driving, particularly smartphone use.

The growing issue of distracted driving, often linked to the use of smartphones and other electronic devices, diverts drivers’ attention from the road, amplifying the risks associated with navigating intersections.

Various transportation modes in a single intersection.

Intersections bring together a mix of transportation modes, creating a dynamic environment where the interactions between vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists add complexity and increase the overall risk factor.

How to Report a Dangerous Intersection or Malfunctioning Pedestrian Signals

The process for reporting concerns is simple if you know who handles inquiries. If you don’t report to the right department, the issue can’t be addressed and your messages may not get a response. 

For Indiana state roads, highways, and interstates contact the Indiana Department of Transportation at 855-INDOT4U (855-463-6848) or fill out their online form.

If the issue is with city or county streets, like a pothole, broken pedestrian signal, or a missing sign or pedestrian signals, search the INDOT site for the appropriate local agency. 

You can also report concerns for a Marion County street by visiting the Mayor’s Action Center website or calling them at 317-327-4622. 

How Can The Department of Transportation Fix Dangerous Intersections in Your Neighborhood

The Department of Transportation evaluates data on recent crashes, pedestrian and cyclist usage, and visibility concerns. Based on the survey findings, the Department of Transportation OT can prioritize the installation of a sign or signals where needed, making sure they are well-illuminated and that signs are installed where they can be seen.

Maintenance and illumination of existing traffic control devices, including traffic signals, pedestrian signals, and signs with unusual features displayed are foundational to the process of making your street safe.

Collaborating with the local police precinct, elected officials, and local leaders, strengthens the demand for safety measures and reduces crashes. This collaboration showcases the community’s commitment to increasing safety.

What To Do If You’re in an Accident at an Unsafe Intersection

Poynter & Bucheri- Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyers 

Our team can assist you if you are involved in a car accident on one of Indianapolis’s dangerous roads or the surrounding area. Accidents can happen on any street you drive, walk, or cross even on a street with that is usually considered safe. 

So, no matter where your accident occurred, it’s crucial to consult with a local attorney if you were injured and need to file a personal injury claim. You are more likely to get the total and fair compensation you deserve to help you pay for your injuries and other damages when you work with an experienced attorney. 

At Poynter & Bucheri, we have years of experience helping the people of Indianapolis file their claims and win high-value settlements. We are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and ensuring they get the full compensation they deserve. 

Don’t hesitate — an experienced Indiana car accident lawyer can immediately assist you. Call 1-800-265-9881 to request a free case review.