Defensive driving is an important practice for even the most experienced of drivers, especially those who regularly commute or drive long distances. High traffic areas of the road create more opportunity for a potentially dangerous or even fatal accident, and even if you’re a safe and experienced driver, there’s no way to know who on the road is rushing, distracted, or simply careless.
One area of the road in particular poses a statistically higher threat of collision: intersections. Data from the Federal Highway Administration shows that more than 50 percent of the combined total of fatal and injury crashes occur at or near intersections. Already a naturally high-risk area, research shows that some are especially more dangerous than others for drivers, based on traffic patterns.
Below is a list of the top ten most dangerous intersections in North Carolina, based on the highest number of collisions in a year:
- US 29 at NC 24 (Mecklenburg County – 272 collisions)
- NC 49 at SR 2827 (Mecklenburg County – 215 collisions)
- US 17 at SR 1309 (Craven County – 180 collisions)
- US 17 at US 17 Bus (Craven County – 162)
- US 64 WB Couplet at US 25 Bus (Henderson County – 162)
- US 1 at SR 3977 (Wake County – 151)
- NC 160 at SR 5901 (Mecklenburg County – 141)
- Corporation at New Hope (MP 3.60) (Wake County – 131)
- NC 53 at SR 1308 (Onslow County – 129)
- Corporation at New Hope (MP 3.76) (Wake County – 121
No matter how comfortable you feel on the road, there are always additional steps to remind yourself of while driving to best ensure your safety. When driving near traffic-heavy areas, remember to keep the following in mind:
- Always watch for traffic when driving through an intersection. Even if you have the right-of-way, don’t automatically assume that every oncoming vehicle will yield.
- When turning right on a red light, make sure the care who turned in front of you continues moving, to avoid a rear-end collision.
- Avoid lane changes while driving through an intersection, as another vehicle may be turning onto your lane.
- Remember that you’re sharing the road, and always watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
There are always precautions you can take to protect your safety on the road. In the event of an unexpected accident, remember that our firm is here to advocate for your wellbeing. Find out more about how we approach collision cases here.
