Huntsville is a vibrant city in Alabama, and as with any thriving city, traffic can be a concern. Like other cities across the U.S., accident trends show that specific intersections tend to be more dangerous than others.
For this reason, the car accident attorneys at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., put together this list of the most dangerous intersections in our city.
Were you hurt in an accident in Huntsville? Our firm has been standing up for injured people in Huntsville and all over Alabama since 1966. You can have our attorneys review your case and discuss all of your options when you call us or contact us online for a free consultation.
10 Most Dangerous Intersections in Huntsville
The Alabama Media Group reported that the 10 most dangerous intersections in Huntsville included:
- Research Park Boulevard and Old Madison Pike
- University Drive and Jordan Lane
- Southbound Memorial Parkway and University Drive
- Interstate 565 and Jordan Lane
- Research Park and Interstate 565
- Memorial Parkway and Mastin Lake Road
- Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive
- Interstate 565 and Sparkman Drive
- Research Park Boulevard and Jordan Lane/Alabama State Route 53
- Memorial Parkway between Governors Drive and Clinton Avenue
Police told the Alabama Media Group that the most common causes of accidents were heavy traffic and tailgating, with most crashes occurring during the evening rush hour between 5 and 6 p.m.
Alabama Crash Statistics
In the Crash Facts Book, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) reported that there were 8,832 crashes in Huntsville in 2017, which was a decrease from the 8,984 collisions in 2016. The result was that fewer people were killed (19 fatalities in 2017 compared to 24 in 2016) and injured (2,409 injured persons in 2017 as opposed to 2,653 in 2016).
Overall, in Alabama, ALDOT reported that the 156,993 crashes in 2017 were a 0.70 percent increase from 2016. Injuries increased 0.25 percent to 47,771. Both fatal wrecks and fatalities decreased, with fatal accidents falling 13.78 percent to 857 and traffic deaths falling 12.95 percent to 948.
Common Causes and Types of Intersection Car Accidents in Alabama
Intersection crashes happen in many ways, but the common element in most of these crashes is some form of negligence by another driver. Examples of common intersection accidents include the following:
- Running red lights – When drivers ignore traffic laws and run a red light or stop sign, it often leads to dangerous broadside accidents at intersections. These accidents are frequently severe because they usually involve two or more vehicles moving at high speeds.
- Failure to yield – Many intersection crashes occur when a negligent driver fails to yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles. This often happens during left turns into oncoming traffic or when cars merge, leading to side-impact crashes.
- Distracted driving – Using a phone, eating, or any other activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road can cause accidents. At intersections, this distraction can be deadly. Rear-end collisions at intersections frequently occur when a negligent driver does not notice a traffic signal has turned red and other vehicles have stopped ahead.
- Speeding – Driving too fast makes it hard to stop in time for red lights or stop signs. Furthermore, speeding through intersections increases the chances of a severe collision, especially if other cars are crossing at the same time.
- Improper lane changes – Some intersection accidents happen when drivers switch lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots. This can cause sideswipe accidents or collisions with vehicles in adjacent lanes.
- Weather conditions – Rain, fog, or ice can make it difficult for drivers to see traffic signals or control their vehicles. Poor weather conditions often lead to accidents at intersections due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
- Drunk driving – Alcohol impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction times. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to make mistakes at intersections, such as running red lights or failing to yield.
Reasons to Get Help from Us After an Intersection Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident at an intersection, having a lawyer on your side can make a big difference. Here’s why you should get help from Morris, King & Hodge, P.C.:
- Decades of experience – As with any job, the longer you do it, the better you get at it. Our intersection accident lawyers have represented people like you since 1966, giving us nearly 60 years of legal experience to call on for your benefit.
- Proven results – We have recovered over $168 million in compensation for accident victims, providing them with the resources they need to rebuild their lives. We will fight for full and fair compensation for your injuries in an intersection crash.
- A direct, personal approach – We believe it’s crucial for our clients to fully understand what’s happening at every stage of their personal injury claim. We’ll walk you through the legal process, explain your rights and options, and answer your questions at any time. We tailor our approach and legal strategy to your specific needs.
- Commitment to accountability – We know you’re in pain and want to see the party that caused your injuries held accountable. That’s why we prepare every case as if it’s headed to trial. If the other side won’t agree to a fair settlement, we’re fully prepared to stand up for your rights in court.
Damages You May Recover After an Intersection Accident
Once we thoroughly investigate the car accident, we can then accurately assess and document your losses. We’ll help you seek maximum compensation for all your losses from the negligent driver and their insurance company, including money for:
- Past and future medical expenses related to the crash
- Lost income while you heal
- Reduced future earnings due to a disability
- Diminished quality of life due to a disability
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Damaged personal property
Exercise Caution While Driving Through Intersections
When you encounter a busy or dangerous intersection in Huntsville, approach with caution and drive defensively. If you plan on making a turn, always be sure to properly signal your intention to do so in advance.
Always avoid distractions such as cell phones while driving through intersections. Make sure you are obeying a proper following distance, preferably two seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
Use caution and check for cross traffic even when you have the green light. Motorists are even more likely to run red lights now that distracted driving from cell phones is so common.
How Our Intersection Car Accident Attorneys Can Help You
When you choose Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., you’re not just getting legal representation. You’re gaining a dedicated team who will support you at every stage of your case.
First, we’ll meet with you to understand the details of the traffic accident and gather the necessary evidence. That includes collecting the police accident report, witness statements, physical evidence, and any available videos and photos. We’ll review this information to better understand what happened and why, calling in experts as needed to analyze complex details.
Next, we’ll handle all communications with insurance companies, pushing back on their aggressive tactics and preventing them from taking advantage of you. Our attorneys will negotiate for a fair financial recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages. We’re prepared to take your case to court if the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair settlement.
We also manage all the legal paperwork and deadlines, so you don’t have to worry about missing any crucial details. Our attorneys will provide ongoing support and guidance, answering any questions you have along the way. Our team will keep you informed throughout the process, explaining each step in clear, simple terms. We understand how stressful this time can be, and we’re here to make it easier for you. We’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Were you severely hurt or was your loved one killed in a crash at an intersection in Huntsville?
Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., represents car accident victims on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
Call us or contact us online now to schedule a free consultation.
