The majority of stop sign collisions occur in intersections. The IIHS and the Department of Transportation advocate for the focus to be put on improving the design of intersections by implementing safer forms of traffic control. Pavement markers that warn drivers of an upcoming stop sign can get a driver’s attention.
Also, intersections should be checked periodically to see if the stop signs are visible and are not being obstructed. Installing all way stop signs can also be a method of accident prevention. All way, or four-way stops, stop signs can reduce overall crashes by 40% to 60%.
The automotive industry has begun implementing crash avoidance technologies that can alert the driver before a crash or at least reduce the severity of the crash. Front crash prevention systems such as radars, sensors or cameras alert the driver when another vehicle is close. Some of these systems link to the car’s brake system, which allows the car to apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond.
In March 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety announced a commitment of 20 major automakers (this represents 99% of U.S. vehicle sales) to make front crash prevention systems standard on virtually all car models by September 2022.