Danger at Intersections: Motorcycle Speed is Greatly Underestimated
This is shown by a study conducted by ÖAMTC and the Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV). "This can quickly lead to dangerous situations, for example, when drivers undertake risky maneuvers because they misjudge the speed and distance of an approaching vehicle," warned ÖAMTC traffic psychologist Marion Seidenberger in a statement on Thursday.
78 people were confronted with various traffic situations at a simulated intersection. From their own vehicle, they were to estimate the speed of cars, trucks, and motorcycles approaching the intersection. The results showed that test subjects had particular difficulty with motorcycles. "Presumably, the narrow silhouette of two-wheelers contributes to them appearing visually further away - a dangerous misconception that can have fatal consequences," reported Seidenberger.
Noticeable differences in perception were also evident in specific intersection situations, such as turning left and going straight. "Although drivers generally felt safe according to their own statements, the actual measurements suggest that they tend to act more riskily when going straight and accept shorter distances to other vehicles," explained Seidenberger.
Going straight particularly risky
The accident statistics underscore this issue, it was stated in the release. "When looking at intersection accidents by driving direction, it shows that more than half (53 percent) occur when going straight, 26 percent when turning left, and 17 percent when turning right," reported Klaus Robatsch, head of the traffic safety department at KFV. "Approach speeds are often misjudged, leading to uncontrolled braking maneuvers, rear-end collisions, or running red lights."
In total, around 22 percent of all accidents with personal injury in Austria in 2023 occurred at intersections - that's 7,735 accidents. "We need to focus more on the perception of speeds in driver's license training and raise awareness among drivers about the particular dangers at intersections. Concentration and attention are extremely important, especially in intersection areas," emphasized Seidenberger.
(APA/Red)
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