The 10 Most Dangerous Intersections in Los Angeles, CA
According to data from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, these are the 10 intersections in the city with the highest number of collisions:
1. Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave
2. Wilshire Blvd and Westwood Blvd
3. Laurel Canyon Blvd and Roscoe Blvd
4. Western Ave and Manchester Ave
5. Sunset Blvd and Highland Ave
6. Roscoe Blvd and Sepulveda Blvd
7. Lankershim Blvd and Magnolia Blvd
8. Crenshaw Blvd and Slauson Ave
9. Cahuenga Blvd and Sunset Blvd
10. Vermont Ave and 6th St
What Makes Intersections So Dangerous?
Intersections pose a unique set of challenges that make them far more dangerous than other parts of the road network. Some of the key factors that contribute to the hazardous nature of intersections include:
- Multiple Points of Potential Collision: At a standard four-way intersection, there are as many as 32 potential collision paths between the vehicles travelling in different directions. This complexity increases the chances of a crash significantly.
- Limited Visibility: Intersections are often obstructed by buildings, signs, trees, and other obstacles that can limit a driver's line of sight. This makes it harder for drivers to see oncoming traffic and pedestrians, reducing their reaction time.
- Distracted and Inattentive Drivers: Intersections require a high degree of focus and awareness, but many drivers are distracted by things like cell phones, in-vehicle infotainment systems, passengers, or simply daydreaming. Inattentive drivers are much more likely to fail to yield the right of way or misjudge the speed and distance of other vehicles.
- High Traffic Volumes: Intersections in urban areas like Los Angeles tend to have very high traffic volumes, with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists all competing for limited space. The sheer number of road users increases the chances of a collision occurring.
Common Types of Intersection Accidents
The most common types of intersection accidents include:
- T-Bone (or Broadside) Collisions: These occur when one vehicle runs a red light or stop sign and collides with the side of another vehicle passing through the intersection.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Drivers making left turns across oncoming traffic often misjudge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles, leading to collisions.
- Rear-End Collisions: Drivers who are distracted, following too closely, or traveling at unsafe speeds may fail to stop in time when the vehicle in front of them brakes at an intersection.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrians crossing at intersections are vulnerable to being struck by turning or through-traffic vehicles that fail to yield the right of way.
- Bicycle Accidents: Cyclists riding through intersections can be struck by vehicles that don't see them or misjudge their speed and position.
Common Intersection Accident Injuries
The types of injuries sustained in intersection accidents can vary widely depending on factors like the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, and whether safety devices like seatbelts and airbags were utilized. Some of the most common intersection accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Severe lacerations and disfigurement
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
What to Do After an Intersection Accident
If you're involved in an intersection accident, it's important to take the following steps:
1. Ensure your own safety and call emergency services if needed.
2. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s) involved.
3. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
4. Obtain a copy of the police report.
5. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries don't seem serious at first.
6. Contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
How Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Intersection accidents can be complex, with multiple parties potentially liable and insurance companies often trying to minimize their payouts. That's why it's so important to have an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer on your side who can:
- Investigate the accident and determine fault
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Ensure you receive the full compensation you're entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
- File a lawsuit against negligent parties, if necessary
- Provide guidance and support throughout the legal process
Contact Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer, Trusted Legal Partner
Don't try to navigate the aftermath of an intersection accident alone. Contact a skilled Los Angeles car accident lawyer today to protect your rights and seek justice and full compensation.