Driving, without a doubt, comes with its dangers. Despite the immense amount of hazardous energy involved, most drivers comfortably get behind the wheel without a second thought. Unless you’ve recently had a close call or been in an accident, your driving judgment is likely clouded by complacency. And when you’re unaware of the risks, that complacency can easily put you and others in danger.
This often shows up in everyday driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, switching lanes without signaling, or becoming distracted by adjusting the radio or sipping coffee. One important practice that can help combat this complacency is scanning intersections. This simple habit, however, often gets overlooked, especially when drivers believe their right of way guarantees safety.
Here’s the thing: just because you have a green light doesn’t mean the traffic approaching their red light is going to stop. It’s crucial to always perform an LCR (left-center-right) scan every time you approach an intersection. Failing to do so is one of the leading causes of city crashes, according to the Federal Highway Administration.
Don’t let complacency fool you. Even if it feels like second nature, you need to engage your brain—not just move your head—when scanning. A study from the NHTSA revealed that 96% of intersection-related accidents are caused by driver error, and 44% of those are because drivers fail to properly scan the intersection. It’s easy to be distracted by the song playing or daydreaming while you’re just “looking,” but truly observing is what makes all the difference.
By actively scanning the intersection, you stay aware of potential dangers. For instance, it’s essential to keep an eye on drivers coming from the opposite direction. One moment of distraction on their part could result in a collision. Similarly, being mindful of approaching vehicles gives you the chance to assess if they’re slowing down appropriately.
Another distraction to be cautious of is GPS systems. While helpful, they can lull you into a trance-like state, allowing you to slip into autopilot. So, what can you do to combat complacency behind the wheel?
1. Pre-plan Your Route
Pre-planning doesn’t just save you time; it helps you anticipate potential risks along the way. With apps like Google Maps and Waze, you can avoid high-traffic areas or road closures and plan for smoother, safer travel. This habit fosters a better state of mind before hitting the road.
2. Start with Safety in Mind
Scanning intersections is just one example of a safety habit. Companies can foster a culture of safety by holding pre-shift meetings, encouraging vehicle checks, and discussing the importance of staying alert behind the wheel. By setting safety expectations early, you reinforce the mindset that complacency has no place in safe driving.
3. Pay Attention to Road Signs
When intersections aren’t in sight, it’s still essential to be sharp on the road. Road signs like “deer crossing” or “pedestrian crossing” should snap your attention into alert mode. Even if these aren’t immediate dangers, they serve as reminders to heighten awareness and stay mindful of your surroundings.
4. Make Scanning a Habit
The key takeaway is simple: actively scan intersections every time you approach them. By doing so, you’re fighting complacency, increasing focus, and reducing the risk of accidents. Regular scanning not only keeps your mind sharp but also combats fatigue, rushing, and stress, which often lead to poor decision-making.
By incorporating intersection scanning into your driving routine, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re helping to ensure everyone around you stays safe. Fostering this habit not only addresses common workplace safety concerns but also combats distractions, human error, and the possibility of injury. With a little effort, you can make the road a safer place for everyone.
