Studies done by the FLHSMV tell us that an estimated 40% of motor vehicle crashes occur at an intersection or are intersection related. Moreover, 21% of all fatal crashes occur at an intersection and lastly, roughly 49% of crashes in urban areas occur at an intersection. Car crashes frequently occur at intersections due to several contributing factors that create a complex and potentially hazardous environment for drivers.
In fact, The University of Kentucky ran a three year study examining 7,000 different intersections and 19,000 intersection crashes in order to determine which intersections had the highest crash rates. Common factors of intersections with higher crash rates included:
- Number of lanes
- Volume of traffic
- Whether the intersection is in a rural or urban area
- Whether lanes are divided between opposing traffic
Why Do So Many Car Crashes Happen at Intersections?
Here are some reasons why intersections are common sites for accidents:
Converging Traffic: Intersections are points where multiple roads intersect, leading to the convergence of vehicles traveling in different directions and at various speeds. This complexity increases the likelihood of misjudgments, confusion, and collisions.
Conflicting Movements: Different vehicles often have conflicting movements at intersections, such as right turns, left turns, and through movements. Coordinating these movements can be challenging and may lead to collisions, especially if drivers fail to yield right of way or make improper turns.
Changing Traffic Signals: Traffic signals and signs at intersections require drivers to make quick decisions based on changing signals. Some drivers may run red lights or make hasty decisions when the light changes, leading to accidents.
Distracted Driving: Intersections are locations where drivers may be more likely to engage in distracted behaviors like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting navigation systems. These distractions can cause drivers to miss important traffic signals or the actions of other drivers.
Speed Variations: Vehicles approaching an intersection may be traveling at different speeds. Speeding drivers or those not adjusting their speed to the flow of traffic can lead to rear-end collisions or other accidents.
Visibility Challenges: Buildings, landscaping, other vehicles, and weather conditions can hinder visibility at intersections. Poor visibility can lead to drivers not noticing approaching vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.
Misjudgments: Drivers may misjudge the speed or distance of other vehicles, leading to collisions when they attempt to cross or enter an intersection.
Left-Turn Accidents: Left-turning vehicles are particularly vulnerable at intersections, as they often have to yield to oncoming traffic and gauge the speed of approaching vehicles accurately.
Pedestrian Crossings: Intersections are also where pedestrians cross roads, and interactions between vehicles and pedestrians can result in accidents, especially if drivers fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians.
What Are the Busiest Intersections in Miami?
Miami is certainly no stranger to busy intersections. Some of the most common include:
Downtown Miami – Brickell Avenue & SE 8th Street: This intersection is located in the heart of Miami’s financial district, known as Brickell. It experiences heavy traffic due to its proximity to office buildings, residential complexes, and popular entertainment venues.
Coral Gables – SW 8th Street & Ponce de Leon Blvd: Situated in the historic Coral Gables neighborhood, this intersection is known for its bustling shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, contributing to high traffic volume.
South Beach – Collins Avenue & 5th Street: Located in the vibrant South Beach area, this intersection sees heavy traffic due to its popularity among tourists, beachgoers, and the numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops in the vicinity.
Miami Beach – Alton Road & 17th Street: Another busy intersection in the Miami Beach area, this is close to the Miami Beach Convention Center and Lincoln Road Mall. As such, it attracts both locals and visitors.
Downtown Miami – Biscayne Boulevard & NE 6th Street: Near the American Airlines Arena and Bayfront Park, this intersection experiences a significant flow of traffic from events, sports games, and entertainment activities.
Coral Way – SW 27th Avenue & Coral Way: Coral Way is a major thoroughfare in Miami, and this intersection is one of the many busy spots along the route.
Little Havana – SW 8th Street & SW 27th Avenue: As part of the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood, this intersection is known for its cultural significance, restaurants, and shops, resulting in substantial traffic.
Contact an Intersection Car Accident Attorney
Have you suffered after a car crash that occurred at one of these intersections, or one of the countless other intersections here in Miami? It’s important to seek medical attention after an intersection car accident, and then bring on the services of a Miami car accident attorney. You don’t have much time, as valuable evidence is lost every day. Nunez Law P.L. has been helping injured victims of South Florida for over a decade. Our law firm handles a variety of cases, including collisions that occur at busy intersections. Call 786-882-2038 to schedule your consultation at our law firm.
