As drivers, we engage in lane changes daily. Seems straightforward, doesn't it?
Yet, approximately 530,000 lane change crashes occur annually, constituting 10% of all yearly roadway accidents, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates. Lane change accidents can vary from minor fender benders in slow-moving local traffic to severe injuries and fatalities on high-speed highways. At least 60,000 individuals sustain injuries in these lane change accidents, with an estimated 4% of these crashes being major injury incidents. Depending on the complexity and severity of the incident, the costs stemming from a lane change accident can range from a few thousand dollars to multimillion-dollar settlements.
And commercial motor vehicle drivers were at fault in over half of these accidents according to estimates. Companies dealing with frequent lane change accidents may bear the responsibility of auto insurance deductible payments at a minimum, and at a maximum, they could be liable for "nuclear verdict" payments surpassing their insurance policy limits. These possibilities should serve as significant incentives to prioritize driver awareness and additional training to mitigate this risk.
Why does such a seemingly simple maneuver lead to numerous problems? How can we minimize the risk of causing an accident during a lane change?
Making a safe change
To execute a safe lane change, several key steps must be followed. These include checking for a safe gap in traffic, monitoring blind spots, using turn signals, and ensuring a smooth and gradual transition into the new lane.
Blind spots are a primary reason for “routine” lane change accidents. These are areas behind the driver that cannot be observed through the mirrors. When another vehicle enters a blind spot, it becomes impossible to detect without turning the head from the natural driving position.
For commercial drivers, blind spots pose an even greater challenge. Operating large vehicles, both in length and height, makes it more difficult to monitor the surroundings. Most commercial drivers also lack a rearview mirror, further complicating their visibility. Hence, it becomes even more crucial for drivers to physically move and adjust their position when checking mirrors to obtain a better view and reduce the blind spot area.
In addition to being mindful of your own blind spots, it’s important to consider the blind spots of other drivers. Others may not be as aware of their potential blind spots, so it’s advisable to avoid lingering in their blind spot when passing. If you find yourself in the blind spot of another vehicle, either accelerate or decelerate to exit the spot. The less time spent in another driver's blind spot, especially adjacent to a commercial vehicle, the better.
Lane change technology
With advancements in car technology, safety features in newer models have also improved. One such system is Lane Change Assist (LCA), part of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which aids drivers in safely changing lanes. LCA employs sensors to detect and warn drivers about approaching vehicles in adjacent lanes. This feature can be invaluable on congested roads where tracking adjacent vehicles becomes challenging. LCA helps alert drivers to vehicles approaching their blind spots, reducing the likelihood of lane change accidents. If LCA detects a potentially hazardous lane change, it provides an audible and/or visual warning to prevent an unsafe maneuver.
All ADAS, including LCA, rely on advanced sensors to provide safety warnings and actions. LCA utilizes rear radar sensors positioned in the vehicle's rear corners. If a vehicle is detected in the monitored area and a lane change isn't initiated, an LED light in the right and left outside mirrors informs the driver. The low intensity of the light prevents continuous distraction. When the driver activates the turn signal to change lanes and a vehicle is detected in that lane or approaching from the rear, the warning lamp in the corresponding outside mirror flashes brightly.
ADAS and LCA technologies are increasingly being integrated into commercial vehicles. Side mirror-mounted sensors and cameras help eliminate blind spots, enabling commercial drivers to safely execute lane changes. Rear sensors and cameras alert commercial drivers to rapidly approaching vehicles before they initiate a lane change. Often, this technology is integrated with a telematics system within the vehicle.
The culture of cooperation on the road
Ultimately, safe lane changes require cooperation and mutual respect among drivers. Allowing space for lane changes, avoiding aggressive responses, and promoting courteous driving can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. It is essential for every driver to recognize the collective responsibility in maintaining road safety.
Safe lane changes are pivotal in preventing accidents and ensuring overall road safety. By understanding the risks, adhering to best practices, and embracing technological advancements, drivers can significantly mitigate the potential for lane change accidents.
Drive courteously and stay safe. To learn more, download our new Environmental Risk Bulletin: Safe Lane Changes.
Chris O’Neill is a Risk Control Associate with AXA XL’s North America Environmental insurance team. He can be reached at chris.oneill@axaxl.com.
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