Intersections With Frequent Multi-Car Crashes

Some of the most dangerous accidents on the road occur at intersections, where multiple vehicles are involved in crashes that can cause devastating physical, emotional, and financial impacts. In Arizona, certain intersections are more prone to these multi-car crashes than others, making it crucial to be aware of the risks and to know where to find a great Phoenix car accident lawyer.

Recent studies highlight that intersections in Arizona rank as some of the most dangerous in the United States. Specifically, the state has been noted for having the third most frequent intersection-related crashes in the country, with many of the most hazardous locations found in Maricopa County, including intersections along State Route 347.

According to one study, intersections with frequent multi-car crashes are often linked to high traffic volume, poor road conditions, and driver behavior, including speeding and distracted driving. In Arizona, the role of impaired driving in Arizona collisions is another contributing factor that exacerbates the danger, making it even more important to stay alert when navigating the state’s roadways.

Why Are Arizona Intersections So Dangerous?

So, what makes intersections in Arizona so prone to multi-car crashes? Arizona’s rate of 4.09 intersection-related accidents per 100,000 residents places it among the highest in the nation. This statistic is especially concerning when considering that many of these crashes occur in the Phoenix metro area, where traffic is dense and roads are often congested. 

Common causes of accidents at intersections include speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, and drivers misjudging turning gaps. Unfortunately, the risk doesn’t end with other drivers; pedestrians and cyclists are often at a higher risk of injury when these accidents occur.

Impaired driving also plays a significant part in the high crash rates at intersections. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, making intersections–where split-second decisions are necessary–particularly dangerous. The presence of impaired drivers in these high-risk areas is a troubling factor contributing to the state’s statistics.

State Route 347: A Notorious Hotspot for Collisions

When it comes to Arizona’s most dangerous intersections, State Route 347 (SR 347) is consistently ranked among the worst–not just in Arizona, but across the nation. This highway, which runs through Maricopa County, has become infamous for its high frequency of accidents. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), there were 967 accidents on SR 347 between July 2017 and June 2022. That averages out to about one crash every other day.

More than two-thirds of these crashes were rear-end collisions, typically occurring during rush hour when drivers are trying to get home quickly. The combination of high-speed traffic, congestion, and frequent distractions makes SR 347 a prime location for accidents. With the potential for multi-car collisions, it’s important for drivers to be extra cautious, particularly during busy hours.

Top Dangerous Intersections in Phoenix

While SR 347 is a notable hotspot, other intersections in the Phoenix metro area are equally dangerous. The Maricopa Association of Governments has identified the following as some of the most accident-prone intersections in the region, with many of these locations experiencing frequent multi-car crashes:

1. 99th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road
2. 67th Avenue and McDowell Road
3. 75th Avenue and Indian School Road
4. 67th Avenue and Indian School Road
5. 75th Avenue and McDowell Road
6. 27th Avenue and Camelback Road
7. 43rd Avenue and Bethany Home Road
8. 35th Avenue and Glendale Avenue
9. 51st Avenue and Camelback Road
10. 51st Avenue and McDowell Road

Between 2017 and 2022, some of these intersections saw as many as 202 to 411 crashes, making them particularly hazardous for drivers. The heavy traffic in these areas combined with poorly timed signals, lane changes, and distracted driving creates a dangerous environment for everyone on the road.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Multi-Car Accident at an Intersection

If you’ve been involved in an accident at one of these dangerous intersections, or any other intersection, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911 and report the accident: Contact law enforcement to document the crash, especially if there are injuries involved. The police report will be vital when filing insurance claims or seeking legal action.
2. Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and any relevant road signs or signals. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
3. Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured right away, some injuries from multi-car crashes may not be immediately apparent. Make sure to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
4. Contact a Phoenix car accident lawyer: The best way to ensure you get the legal support you need is to speak with an experienced Phoenix car accident lawyer. At Gage Mathers, our team has extensive experience handling cases involving multi-car accidents and can guide you through the process of filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and seeking compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Why Choose Gage Mathers for Your Accident Case?

If you’ve been injured in a multi-car crash at one of Arizona’s dangerous intersections, you need experienced legal representation. At Gage Mathers, we understand the complexities involved in these cases, from investigating the causes of the crash to navigating insurance claims and dealing with the role of impaired driving in Arizona collisions. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the justice you deserve.

We’re here to help you through every step of the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and ensuring you receive fair compensation. Let us be your advocates during this challenging time!

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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