Why Drivers Have Trouble Seeing Side Traffic at T-Intersections in Rural Areas

February 6, 2023

T-intersections are a basic type of intersection where 2 roads meet at right angles and one road ends. It's a less complicated type of intersection than crossroads but can still be dangerous if traffic is high.

When you approach a T-intersection, you must drive at a speed that allows you to stop in time if oncoming traffic suddenly appears. You must also look for oncoming traffic and pedestrians crossing the street before you make your turn.

Drivers have difficulty seeing side traffic at t-intersections in rural areas because they are often obstructed by parked cars and fences. They are particularly vulnerable when the weather is rainy or snowy because oncoming traffic may be more difficult to stop in such conditions.

How drivers position themselves in the intersection is another factor that contributes to their difficulty seeing side traffic. Some drivers, such as older and middle-aged drivers, inch forward and remain mostly straight in their lane to increase their visibility. They do this to avoid encroaching into the oncoming lane and being hit by oncoming traffic.

Other drivers, especially young males and females, inch forward but stay in their lane to get the best possible view of traffic. They also do this to reduce their travel distance and prevent their vehicle from blocking the view of oncoming traffic.

In most cases, however, drivers do not consider the weather a complicating factor when making their decisions. They are still concerned about obstructing their view and about being hit from behind, but they do not have as much trouble with ice and snow.

Mission

Traffic Dave is on a mission to help traffic engineers, transportation planners, and other transportation professionals improve our world.
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram