How many intersection highway traffic crashes occur in the United States every year?

The statistic of around 2.8 million intersection highway traffic crashes occurring annually in the United States reflects significant insights into traffic safety. Intersections are complex areas where different traffic streams converge, leading to a higher potential for collisions. The density of vehicles and the various possible interactions, such as turning, crossing, or merging, contribute to the increased likelihood of crashes.

This figure also underscores the importance of defensive driving practices, which aim to mitigate risk in such high-collision scenarios. In learning defensive driving, one becomes aware of the unique challenges posed by intersections, including the need for heightened vigilance, understanding traffic signals, and anticipating the actions of other road users. Recognizing the scale of intersection crashes helps drivers appreciate the necessity of adhering to traffic laws and employing strategies that enhance safety for themselves and others.

The higher figures presented in the other choices, while alarming, do not accurately reflect the most commonly cited statistics, which helps drivers adjust their perceptions to align with real-world data on traffic incidents.