With highway intersections bringing multiple roads and opposing traffic directions together, it’s no surprise that these are the most common locations for accidents. However, all intersections in Martin County and St Lucie County are not created the same. Some happen to be more dangerous than others because of their specific characteristics such as high traffic levels, several roads intersecting, multiple lanes, blind spots, regular sun glare, etc. If you live or drive in Martin County and St Lucie County, knowing the most dangerous intersections can help reduce your odds of becoming a car accident victim.
Dangerous Intersections in St. Lucie County
In Florida, US-1 is the most dangerous highway and has some of the riskiest intersections in St. Lucie County. That means you need to be extra careful if your daily commute involves driving through any intersection along U.S.1. According to traffic studies carried out in St. Lucie County between 2000 and 2010, US-1 & Prima Vista Blvd intersection emerged as the most accident-prone location. During that period, 578 crashes were recorded within a 200 feet radius of the US-1 & Prima Vista Blvd intersection. US-1 & W Midway Rd was the second most dangerous spot in St. Lucie County, recording 528 crashes between 2000 and the end of 2010.
Martin County’s Most Dangerous Intersections
The story is pretty much the same for Martin County. According to recent research, US-1 & NW Jensen Beach Blvd emerged as the topmost dangerous intersection in Martin County, recording 311 crashes between 2006 and 2010. That’s an average of 62 accidents every year. US-1 & Cove Rd East (connection point) was ranked second while US-1 & NW Britt Rd came third, and US-1 & SE Monterey Rd was in the fourth position. On average, Martin County recorded roughly 4.5 intersection accidents daily.
What Makes an Intersection Dangerous?
While all intersections pose some risk level to drivers, certain factors increase the chances of an accident happening at an intersection. Some of these include:
- Malfunctioning or confusing traffic signals
- Bad weather such as large puddles can cause vehicles to hydroplane, making it hard for a driver to stop their vehicle at an intersection
- Inadequate lighting
- Narrow lanes make it hard for drivers to maneuver their vehicles on the road
- Uneven surfaces or sharp drop-offs at the intersection may make it more difficult for drivers to keep their vehicles on the road
- Potholes, rough pavement, and other road hazards increase the risk of accidents for vehicles traveling through intersections
- Difficult-to-read, confusing, or obscured signs create the same challenges for drivers as the total absence of signs
- Poorly or improperly marked lanes.
How to Avoid Accidents at Intersections?
While traffic engineers in Florida are doing their best to improve the state of roads in all accident-prone locations, drivers need to be extra cautious and vigilant when approaching intersections. Some of the things that can help reduce the risk of an accident and keep you safe include:
Watching Out for Other Drivers
One of the surefire ways to avoid intersection crash is to watch out for other drivers and vehicles. You need to pay attention to the road and everything surrounding your car to notice any drivers who appear distracted or those driving recklessly. By doing this, you will be able to take necessary measures to avoid such drivers by slowing down or employing other defensive driving skills.
Putting Away Distractions
While on the road, especially when driving through an intersection, it’s critical that you do not engage in behaviors that might distract you. Distracted driving is one of the major causes of an auto accident. That’s why you should never use your phone to make calls, text, or glance at a phone GPS while driving. If you feel distracted by the passengers’ conversation, there’s no harm in asking them to hold the conversation until you have safely passed a dangerous spot.
Proceeding with Caution
Being cautious while driving is another way to avoid accidents. When approaching intersections, you need to stay within the flow of traffic and avoid speeding. Moreover, you need to drive defensively and stay alert to avoid increased risk factors such as narrow or poorly marked lanes, conflicting or confusing signs, and poor roads or lighting.
Choosing Travel Times Carefully
Another way to avoid accidents at dangerous spots is by choosing to travel during off-peak times. Avoiding periods with high traffic volumes such as rush hour reduces your odds of causing or getting involved in a crash.
Avoiding Dangerous Intersections Whenever Possible
Depending on where you live, work, or go to school, you may not have an option but to travel through one or more of the dangerous intersections. However, if you have ways to avoid the danger spots, you need to use them whenever possible. Avoiding or removing your car from the danger spots will eliminate the chances of becoming a victim of an accident at that location.
Need Help? Talk to Fetterman & Associates, P.A
If you have been involved in an auto accident anywhere in Martin County and St. Lucie County, our attorneys are ready to help. Please give us a call to learn whether you are eligible to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering you endured and/or are still experiencing.