T-bone crashes, left-turn collisions, rear-end wrecks—Florida’s intersections are hotspots for serious accidents
Florida is known for its sunshine, beaches, and theme parks. Unfortunately, it has also gained a troubling new distinction: the state with the deadliest roads when it comes to intersection accidents.
That’s according to crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Over a five-year period, Florida topped the list with an average of 5.19 intersection crashes per 100,000 residents, which is nearly double the national average of 2.78. These numbers aren’t only concerning; they’re a sign that something needs to change.
The 10 Worst States for Intersection Crashes
While the NHTSA data places Florida in first place, several other states also had high crash rates. Here’s how the top ten stacked up:
- Florida – 5.19
- New Mexico – 4.33
- Arizona – 4.09
- Delaware – 3.80
- South Carolina – 3.80
- Mississippi – 3.74
- Louisiana – 3.70
- Oklahoma – 3.68
- Alabama – 3.54
- Kansas – 3.52
All of these states are above the national average, which points to a much bigger issue with intersection safety nationwide.
Why Are Florida’s Intersections So Dangerous?
What’s going on in Florida that’s making intersections so risky? It's a mix of issues, including:
- Heavy traffic congestion, especially in urban areas.
- High-speed roads running through city centers.
- Distracted driving, often from phones or GPS use.
- A booming population and a constant flow of tourists.
Additionally, drivers often speed, use cellphones, and make costly misjudgments while turning at intersections. This puts other drivers and vulnerable road users (e.g., pedestrians and bicyclists) at risk. In short, Florida’s roads are a perfect storm: busy, fast-paced, and full of unpredictability.
What are the most dangerous intersections in Florida?
Anyone who’s ever hesitated at a four-way stop or nervously made a left-hand turn knows how tricky Florida intersections can be. The combination of cars coming from all directions (along with bikes and pedestrians) makes them one of the most dangerous parts of any road.
While all intersections in Florida require vigilance, there are a handful of them that are particularly hazardous. The ones that get the most attention for being dangerous include:
- US-19 Corridor - Pasco & Pinellas Counties
- SR-70 & US-41 - Bradenton
- SR-19 & SR-40 - Marion County
- NE 2nd Ave & 36th St - Midtown Miami
- SW 117th Ave & Kendall Dr - West Kendall
- Krome Ave & SW 88th St - Kendall
- Sheldon Rd & Waters Ave W - Tampa
- US-19 & Ulmerton Rd - Clearwater
How do we Make Intersections Safer in Florida?
Fortunately, there are practical steps Floridians can take to reduce intersection crashes. Some of the top recommendations include:
- Improved signage to help drivers navigate turns and stops.
- Optimized traffic light timing to reduce confusion and risky behavior.
- Better street lighting, especially in high-traffic or poorly lit areas.
- Enhanced enforcement of speed limits and distracted driving laws.
- Staying focused and traveling at a safe speed.
- Watching for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Common Types of Crashes at Florida intersections
With vehicles coming from multiple directions, sudden stops, and unpredictable driver behavior, intersections are hotspots for a variety of collision types, including:
T-bone (side-impact) collisions
Also known as broadside accidents, T-bone collisions happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These are especially common when a driver runs a red light or fails to yield the right of way. Because the sides of most vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear, these crashes can be particularly dangerous.
Rear-end collisions
This is one of the most common types of car accidents at intersections. Rear-end crashes usually occur when a driver is distracted, speeding, or following too closely and fails to stop in time when the car in front brakes for a red light or stop sign. Even at lower speeds, these crashes can cause whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.
Left-turn accidents
Making a left turn across oncoming traffic can be tricky, especially at intersections without a protected turn signal. Intersection accidents often happen when a driver misjudges the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles or tries to beat the light.
Sideswipe accidents
Sideswipe crashes often happen when multiple lanes are merging or drivers fail to stay in their lane while turning. These can result in damage to vehicles and loss of control, especially for smaller cars or motorcycles.
Head-on collisions
Though less common, head-on crashes can occur at intersections if a driver goes the wrong way, makes an improper left turn, or runs a red light and strikes oncoming traffic. These types of collisions are among the most dangerous, with a high potential for severe injuries or fatalities.
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
Intersections are also high-risk areas for pedestrians and bicyclists. Drivers making turns may fail to see someone in a crosswalk, especially if they're in a hurry or not checking blind spots. Poor visibility and distracted driving further increase the risk of striking someone crossing the street.
Let a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Protect Your Rights
If you were hurt in a crash at an intersection, you may already know how confusing things can get. Who had the right of way? Was someone distracted? Did a traffic light malfunction or was someone speeding through a red? These aren’t always easy questions to answer, and insurance companies often use that confusion to delay or deny your claim. That’s why it’s so important to have someone in your corner who understands how Florida traffic laws work and who can fight to protect your rights.
Armando Personal Injury Law has handled countless intersection accident cases in Tampa and across Hillsborough County. We know how to investigate crashes, gather the evidence that matters, and build a strong case that holds negligent drivers accountable. If the insurance company won’t play fair? We’re ready to take them to court.
When you’re injured and dealing with medical bills, lost income, and pain from an intersection accident that wasn’t your fault, the last thing you need is legal red tape.
Let us handle the legal side while you focus on healing. Contact us online or call us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you with the next steps in your case.
“He is an awesome attorney. I would not ask for a better attorney, and his staff is awesome. They kept me posted on my case, and I appreciate everything they’ve done for me. I would truly recommend him for an attorney.” – A.V., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐