Make sure to stop at intersections.

During a road test, a driver applicant should expect to be scored on several predetermined intersections that will be encountered. An applicant must show basic skills necessary to drive defensively, while anticipating problems and situations with heightened caution and attention during congested traffic times.

The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that 43% of motor vehicle crashes occur at intersections or locations where two or more roads meet, cross or converge.

When driving straight through an intersection, a driver must check left and right in case another vehicle is not paying attention.

When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. The driver must also yield to any vehicle that is already lawfully in the intersection and any pedestrian in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.

When driving straight through an intersection, a driver must check left and right in case another vehicle is not paying attention. A parent might be correcting a child, or texting a spouse, and may not have noticed they do not have the right of way.

Use extra caution at intersections, especially in winter when roads can be icy, slippery, and snow-covered. Speeding, running red lights and failing to yield to pedestrians can have tragic consequences. Be aware that vehicles might be trying to enter an intersection under difficult conditions. Especially on bad or wet days or nights if you see someone struggling, you can always slow down or stop to let them in,

There are two basic types of intersections. Some are controlled and some are uncontrolled. Controlled intersections have traffic lights, stop signs or yield signs. Approaching a controlled intersection, a driver must scan well ahead and be ready to respond to a traffic light change. Known as a ”stale green”, there is a chance that the light will change by the time the driver gets to the intersection. They must be prepared to adjust speed to conserve momentum in the event the light changes and there is a need to brake hard.An uncontrolled intersection is one in which the entrance into the intersection from any of the approaches is not controlled by a sign or traffic signal. Uncontrolled intersections are usually limited to very low-volume roads in rural or residential areas

An uncontrolled intersection is one in which the entrance into the intersection from any of the approaches is not controlled by a sign or traffic signal. Uncontrolled intersections are usually limited to very low-volume roads in rural or residential areas.

Always come to a complete stop at a intersection with a stop sign

Crosswalk

When approaching a crosswalk proceed with extreme attention. Check all directions to make sure the intersection can be entered safely. Regardless of the color of the traffic light, a defensive driver must check to make sure every vehicle from all directions are going to stop.