Our Baltimore car accident lawyers are all too familiar with the most dangerous intersections in Baltimore. Baltimore City is one of the most densely populated areas in Maryland so it has lots of cars on the road at the same time. Baltimore is also an old city, so many of the streets are narrow and many of the intersections are difficult and confusing. As a direct result of these factors, Baltimore City has one of the highest per-driver accident rates of any jurisdiction in Maryland.
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How We Ranked the Most Dangerous Intersections in Baltimore
Serious auto accidents can and frequently do happen all over Baltimore. There are, of course, certain intersections that account for a disproportionately high volume of accidents. In most instances, intersections with very high traffic volumes are going to generate more accidents. This does not necessarily mean that these are the most dangerous intersections.
Our rankings below focus not just on the volume or rate of reported auto accidents that an intersection generates, but the severity of those accidents. In other words, this list ranks the intersections that pose the greatest risk of severe injuries or fatalities from auto accidents. For example, an intersection that averages 300 minor fender-bender accidents every year would rank lower on this list than an intersection that averages a dozen accidents but with a much higher rate of serious injury.
What Makes Certain Intersections So Dangerous?
The most dangerous intersections in Baltimore are sites of severe accidents, leading to life-altering injuries and, in the worst cases, fatalities. It’s crucial to understand why these intersections are hazardous and what you can do to protect yourself when navigating them. Several factors contribute to the danger level of an intersection:
- Average Rate of Speed: the average rate of speed for vehicles when passing through an intersection is probably the number one most significant factor in determining danger level. Intersections, where oncoming traffic comes through at a higher rate of speed, are always going to be more dangerous because they have the potential for high-speed, high-impact accidents.
- Poor Road Design: poor road or traffic flow patterns can make intersections more dangerous because they can lead to higher accident rates at higher speeds. There is nothing more dangerous than making a left turn on green from an awkward angle in the face of fast-moving traffic.
- Visibility Issues: some intersections present drivers with poor or obstructed visibility either because of natural geographic features or man-made obstructions. Not being able to clearly see always presents a hazard.
- Traffic Volume: Most intersections with high traffic volume tend to have low average vehicle speeds, making them less dangerous. However, when you have an intersection with high rates of speed and very heavy traffic volume they can be particularly dangerous.
Baltimore’s Most Dangerous Intersections
Below is our ranking of the 5 most dangerous intersections in Baltimore. These rankings are based on the criteria described above as applied to traffic accident data from the Maryland Department of Transportation, and our own experience with auto accident cases.
#1 North Avenue & N. Monroe Street
The intersection of North Avenue and Monroe street is the heart of Baltimore City. North Avenue is the major east-west artery that crosses through the city and Monroe Street is a major North-South route. This intersection combines all of the factors that can make an intersection dangerous. It sees a high volume of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic and it has poor visibility because the buildings are close to the street. Finally, the average rate of speed for thru traffic on North Avenue is pretty high. The one additional factor that pushes this intersection over the edge and into the top spot is that it also has a high volume of pedestrian traffic. This unique combination of factors makes this a hotspot for accidents. It’s crucial to be extra cautious while approaching this intersection, paying close attention to traffic lights and pedestrian crossings.
# 2 Orleans Street & North Linwood Avenue
This crossroad has a complex layout and often experiences very heavy traffic. The pedestrian traffic at this intersection is very high and can be extremely unpredictable. It also has a somewhat confusing traffic pattern. Accidents here can be attributed to drivers’ confusion and failure to yield the right-of-way. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow traffic rules strictly in such areas.
# 3 East Cold Spring Lane and York Road
This intersection can be particularly challenging due to its high traffic flow across multiple lanes. The other factor that makes it particularly dangerous is that oncoming traffic proceeds at very high rates of speed because the size of the roads and the multiple lanes give the feel of a highway. Speeding and distracted driving often lead to accidents at this intersection.
#4 North Avenue and Howard Street
North Avenue makes the list a second time where it intersects N. Howard Street near the JFX. This intersection is infamous for its high accident rate. The dense traffic, combined with the large number of pedestrians and cyclists, makes this a hotspot for collisions. Furthermore, inadequate signage and complex street layout contribute to confusion among drivers, leading to frequent accidents.
#5 East Monument Street and Wolfe Street
This intersection is located near Johns Hopkins Hospital which is always one of the busiest places at all hours. It also tends to bring in a lot of drivers from outside the city who are very unfamiliar with the local traffic patterns. Adding to the mix is the proximity to a school, attracting a high volume of traffic, pedestrians, and parked cars. Limited visibility due to parked cars and congested traffic patterns increases the risk of accidents.
Of course, the best defense against accidents is safe, attentive driving. Always follow traffic rules, stay within speed limits, and be especially alert when approaching and navigating intersections.
Do You Need a Baltimore Car Accident Lawyer?
Unfortunately, even the most cautious drivers can sometimes become victims of others’ negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident at one of these or any other intersections in Maryland, our dedicated team is here to help. We have extensive experience representing victims of car accidents and are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation at 410-779-4600 or get a free consultation online. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process. Remember, we don’t get paid unless you do – we’re here to help you every step of the way.