Intersections are accident hotspots in Durham, and certain intersections here are more dangerous than others. Speeding, distracted, impaired, or aggressive drivers can cause accidents here if they proceed through the intersection when they’re not supposed to and put themselves in the path of other vehicles that have the right of way. Worse, these accidents can quickly escalate into pileups when they occur at busy intersections.
Why Intersection Accidents Are So Common
Have you ever wondered how many car accidents happen at intersections or what percentage of car accidents happen at intersections? The answers may surprise you. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that about one-quarter of all traffic deaths and half of all traffic injuries occur at intersections. Some reasons intersection accidents are so common and dangerous include:
- High Traffic Volume – Intersections in busy areas of Durham experience a constant flow of vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The more traffic, the higher the likelihood of collisions.
- Distracted Driving – Many drivers use their phones, GPS systems, or engage in conversation with other passengers as they approach intersections, making it harder for them to maintain focus. Even a brief moment of distraction can lead to a crash when many cars are closely packed together.
- Impaired Driving – Alcohol or drug use slows drivers’ reaction times and impairs their judgment. Impaired drivers often fail to obey traffic signals or stop signs, especially at night, and crashes happen as a result.
- Failure to Yield – Some drivers ignore right-of-way rules at intersections by running stop signs, rolling through red lights, or assuming others will yield. These violations of traffic laws often cause dangerous conflicts and collisions.
- Speeding – Driving too fast through an intersection shortens drivers’ reaction times, meaning they may not have time to stop if another car suddenly enters the intersection. Driving over the speed limit also increases the severity of collisions.
- Poor Judgment When Turning – Drivers sometimes misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming traffic when making left or right turns at intersections. These errors can lead to T-bone or head-on collisions.
- Running Traffic Controls – Running red lights and stop signs is one of the leading causes of intersection crashes. This behavior puts everyone at risk, especially those who are crossing the intersection legally.
- Obstructed Views – Trees, buildings, parked cars, or large vehicles near intersections can block a driver’s view of cross traffic or pedestrians, raising the chances of a collision.
- Confusing Intersection Design – Poor signage, unclear lane markings, and complex layouts can cause drivers to hesitate or lead to incorrect moves by those unfamiliar with the area.
- Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, or ice can make intersections slick and reduce visibility. Drivers may misjudge stopping distances or fail to see other vehicles on the road, leading to severe consequences.
Top Dangerous Intersections in Durham, NC
Some of the most common locations for intersection collisions in Durham include:
- I-40 & NC 55 Interchange – This busy interchange connects one of North Carolina’s major interstates with a busy state highway, creating a high volume of merging traffic. Drivers often have to make quick lane changes as they near this intersection, especially during rush hour. Furthermore, confusing ramps and short merge lanes increase the risk of rear-end and sideswipe collisions.
- Fayetteville Rd & Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy – Located near many popular businesses, this intersection sees a steady flow of cars turning in and out of parking lots. Multiple driveways and side streets near the intersection often cause confusion for drivers. Additionally, poor signal timing can lead to sudden stops, while high foot traffic and busy turn lanes raise the chances of crashes during peak shopping hours.
- Roxboro St & Geer St – Located just north of downtown Durham, this intersection serves both commercial and residential traffic. The mix of fast-moving through-traffic and local vehicles contributes to severe crashes and serious injuries, including fatal ones.
- US 15-501 & Mt. Moriah Rd – This area has a history of pedestrian accidents, including some fatal collisions. Heavy, fast-moving traffic on US 15-501 makes crossing and turning hazardous. Poor pedestrian infrastructure, such as a lack of safe crosswalks, adds to the danger at this intersection.
- Guess Rd & Carver St – Traffic congestion and aging road conditions make this intersection particularly hazardous. Recent events, such as water main breaks, have led to road closures and disruptions that increase the likelihood of crashes.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured at One of These Intersections
Here’s what car accident victims can do after a collision at one of these or any other intersection in Durham:
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions Carefully – Attend all follow-up appointments, take your medications as prescribed, and follow any physical therapy plans your doctor has recommended. Skipping care can hurt your health and your injury claim.
- Preserve Any Evidence – Hold onto damaged clothing, photos of your injuries, or anything else related to the crash. If you took pictures of the scene, save those, too. Save every receipt, report, and bill related to your medical treatment to help show the full extent of your injuries and expenses.
- Avoid Discussing the Crash on Social Media – It’s best to stay quiet about the crash online, as insurance companies may look at your posts to use them against you.
- Watch Out for Insurance Adjusters – Be polite but cautious if the at-fault party’s insurance company calls. Don’t give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without first seeking legal advice.
Finally, be sure to talk to a personal injury attorney. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process, deal with the insurance companies, and help you seek fair compensation.
How a Local Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Experienced Durham intersection accident attorneys understand the catastrophic toll these crashes take. They can handle the legal process for you, allowing you to focus on your healing. This process begins by investigating the crash to determine who caused your injuries and collecting evidence that demonstrates their fault. This evidence might include your medical records, financial statements, expert testimony, and other evidence to document your physical, emotional, and economic losses. Armed with this information, your attorney can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf and represent you in court as necessary.
Contact Our Durham Car Accident Attorneys for Help
Trust Kreger Brodish to help you in the aftermath of a Durham intersection accident. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with an intersection accident lawyer in Durham.
