Dangerous Intersections in Los Angeles: Avoiding Accidents

Aside from having some of the country’s busiest and most congested streets, Los Angeles also has the notoriety of having some of the most dangerous intersections.

In fact, based from the 50 largest Census-defined Metropolitan Statistical Areas, Los Angeles is ranked as the first in having the worst intersections in America. Bottlenecks abound in the city and it can get particularly vicious in Hollywood Freeway and U.S. 101 Southbound at Vermont Avenue.

Most Dangerous Intersections

Here are some of the most dangerous intersections you have to look out for when driving through the streets of California:

• Corner of Parthenia Street and Resera Boulevard in Northridge in Los Angeles
• Brookhurst Street and Adams Avenue in Huntington Beach in Orange County
• Interstate 5 near SR 94 in San Diego

Most crashes, fender-benders, and rollovers happen in intersections because traffic not only goes both ways but also from left to right. A lot of these accidents often happen because of failure to follow traffic signs and signals, failure to yield to right of way, speeding, and tailgating.

Avoiding Accidents

As 1/3 of all motor vehicle crashes occur at intersections, here are some tips to follow when driving through intersections:

• As you approach an intersection, decrease your speed and be aware of any incoming traffic, yield signs, stop signs, traffic lights, and nearby bicyclists and pedestrians.
• When going through a controlled intersection (meaning, one with traffic control signs and signals), drive carefully at a steady speed when the green light is on.  If the light is yellow and you cannot stop safely, drive through the intersection.
• When approaching an intersection on a main road and the road beyond is blocked with traffic, do not enter the intersection until the traffic ahead clears. Take note however, that this is not applicable if you are turning left or right.
• When facing a yield sign, slow down or stop if necessary.
• In uncontrolled intersections where there are no signs or traffic lights, drive with extreme caution.
• Remember that drivers on the left side must let the driver on the right go first.
• When turning or entering a road from a private road or driveway, drivers should yield to vehicles on the road and pedestrians on the sidewalk.

Intersection accidents can be easily avoided if drivers and motorists learn to follow traffic rules and signals and be respectful on the road by yielding the right-of-way.

Options for Those Injured by Negligence

Should you be involved in an intersection accident despite being a careful and diligent driver and following the above-mentioned tips, the crash is most likely caused by the fault of another, negligent, party. If you were injured or suffered heavy property damage because of a reckless or negligent driver while crossing the intersection, you may file a personal injury claim or a small claims complaint against him. Intersections are only made dangerous because of the motorists on the road.