Virginia may be for lovers, but their intersections are for broken hearts. Virginia is home to some of the most scenic roadways in the nation, but it’s also a state that has its share of extremely dangerous intersections. Identifying these dangerous roadways and intersections is essential for keeping you and your loved ones safe and out of major legal battles. Understanding what makes these roadways and intersections so hazardous and taking steps to avoid them when possible will reduce your risks on the road.
At Coletrane & Messersmith, we represent the individuals and their families who have been injured in a car accident throughout the communities in Hampton Roads and the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured because of another’s reckless driving, contact our office today.
What Makes an Intersection Dangerous?
Intersections demand a high level of attention and decision-making from drivers, making them inherently risky. With multiple lanes, turning vehicles, and varying signal patterns, drivers must process a lot of information quickly to make the right moves. This environment leaves little room for error, and unfortunately, human factors like distractions and impatience often come into play. A split-second glance at a phone or frustration with traffic delays can lead to critical mistakes like running a red light or failing to yield. Miscommunication is another common issue, where drivers may misinterpret each other’s intentions, such as assuming a vehicle will yield when it doesn’t. These factors create a perfect storm for accidents, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and full attention whenever navigating an intersection.
Some common dangers in intersections:
- Poor visibility makes it hard for drivers to see oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.
- Confusing or unclear signage can lead to hesitation or wrong decisions.
- Heavy traffic congestion during peak hours, increasing the chance of collisions.
- Improperly timed traffic signals that fail to provide adequate clearance time for turning vehicles.
- Multiple lanes and crossing points overwhelm drivers with too many variables.
- Aggressive driving behaviors like running red lights or failing to yield the right of way.
Intersections are some of the most hazardous parts of any roadway, primarily because they require drivers to make quick decisions and often involve multiple travel directions. By being extra cautious and alert, especially at notoriously dangerous intersections, drivers can reduce their risk of being involved in an accident.
History of Frequent Accidents
Hamptons Roads has more than its fair share of dangerous intersections, and some have determined that the surrounding roads and intersections around Virginia Beach are the most hazardous in the state. These are considered high-risk areas due to traffic, congestion and complex traffic patterns with inadequate signage.
Recent statistics show:
- Virginia saw 920 fatal car accidents in 2024, a 1% increase from 2023.
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting, reaching for objects) contributes to 80% of all crashes.
- Virginia Beach experienced over 5,800 crashes.
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents involving cars increased by 10% in Virginia Beach.
- Over 52% of fatal crashes in Virginia Beach involved teen drivers (out of 134 total fatal crashes).
The alarming statistics of fatal crashes in Virginia serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of safe driving habits. For parents, these numbers are a crucial call to action when talking with their young drivers about responsible driving behaviors. Open and honest conversations about the dangers of reckless driving can make a critical difference in helping teens stay safe behind the wheel.
Tips for Staying Safe at Intersections
The intersections in Virginia have been known to cause devastating crashes that can leave victims suffering physically and financially. Following a few simple safety practices, you can stay out of harm/s way and ensure you don’t face the life-altering mistake of a severe car accident. One of the most important things to remember is approaching intersections with caution and focus. Whether it’s a traffic light, stop sign, or roundabout, take the time to assess the situation fully. Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles entering or crossing the intersection. Remember that rushing or misjudging another driver’s intentions can lead to dangerous mistakes. Be sure to always:
- Come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights, no matter how clear the road may look.
- Avoid distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting controls
- Make eye contact with other drivers and pedestrians to ensure everyone understands who has the right of way.
- Use your turn signals to clearly communicate your intentions
- Double-check for blind spots when turning, especially in busy areas.
- Be prepared to yield even if you technically have the right of way
No one wants to suffer the consequences of a car accident, and a car accident in an intersection can leave you extremely vulnerable to other traffic that is also trying to navigate the intersection and now the accident. Safety should come first, and by reviewing these safety tips in intersections you and your young drivers can arrive alive to their destinations.
What to Do After a Car Accident?
If you find yourself in the middle of a busy and dangerous intersection and you’ve just been involved in an accident, it is vital that you act swiftly and stay safe. Other traffic will still be trying to navigate the area, but your safety is the top priority. Call 911 and start determining who is injured and if you are able to move to a more safe location.
Staying calm and focused during these moments can help you manage the situation effectively and protect your well-being. Facing these scary situations can be overwhelming, but after you’ve been involved in a car accident, you should reach out to an experienced car accident attorney to ensure that you have the proper guidance in your next steps.
Contact Coletrane & Messersmith for Legal Guidance
A car accident at a dangerous intersection can leave you dealing with serious injuries, financial burdens, and mounting stress. This is where Coletrane & Messersmith and their skilled car accident attorneys can be vital to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. We pride ourselves on compassionately representing our clients with the knowledge and expertise to guide them through the legal process to ensure that their rights are protected every step of the way. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim or gathering critical evidence to prove liability, we will work tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today to have a skilled attorney in your corner who can give you the confidence and support needed to focus on your recovery while leaving the legal complexities in our capable hands.
