Defensive Driving

How to Prevent Intersection Collisions

At True North Driving School, our instructors focus on teaching defensive driving techniques to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Intersections are among the most dangerous areas on the road, with research showing that a significant number of crashes occur at or are related to these critical points. We emphasize the importance of staying alert and cautious at intersections, equipping you with the skills needed to navigate these hazardous areas safely and reduce the risk of accidents.

What is an intersection?

An intersection is a designated area where two or more roadways meet, allowing vehicles to cross paths. Intersections come in various forms, including:

Four-way intersections
T-intersections
Y-intersections
Roundabouts

While these intersections are essential for traffic flow, they can pose risks, especially when making turns. At True North Driving School, we teach strategies to help you minimize the risk of collisions and navigate intersections with confidence and safety.

What are some of the strategies that True North Driving School teach to be a defensive driver?

The first key strategy for turning safely at intersections is using defensive driving skills. Always be aware of your surroundings and check for potential hazards.
A second strategy for preventing crashes is to yield the right of way to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection. Always wait for them to clear the area before making your turn. This applies to roundabouts as well. Roundabouts are designed to move traffic in a counter clockwise direction, with vehicles already in the roundabout having the right of way. As you approach, wait for a large enough gap in traffic before entering, unless avoiding a collision requires immediate action. Once inside the roundabout, never stop your vehicle.

By applying these strategies, you can greatly reduce the risk of collisions when turning at intersections. Contact True North Driving School to learn more about defensive driving techniques and how to stay safe on the road.