Everyone has that one road or intersection that just terrifies them: maybe it’s the stop sign placed too far back, the fact that it’s multiple roads merging into one, or some obstacle blocking your view. Anyone familiar with the Washington DC area will probably have more than one in mind.
Regardless of the reason you’re on the road – walking for exercise, bicycling for fun, or driving to work – it’s worth knowing which roads are safer or more dangerous than others as you map out your route.
And if tragedy should occur on one of these roads, it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer. While you might assume your healthcare and claims are best overseen by an insurance company, these agencies prioritize their own bottom line more than anything else. They’re interested in resolving claims at the lowest cost, not seeing that your needs are met. If you find yourself navigating a claim after an injury or loss, make sure you have a legal professional such as a Washington D.C. car accident lawyer to guide you through it.
The following are the most dangerous roads in Washington, DC:
1. 14th Street and U Street, NW
First up, we’ve got the U Street Corridor. Located near Dupont Circle, this road is known for being exceptionally prone to traffic accidents. It has become known not only for the number of accidents but the fact that most of them are caused by drunk driving. The surrounding clubs, bars, and restaurants are attractive to many long-time residents and tourists alike. Unfortunately, not everyone plans ahead, and drinking-related accidents are common at night. As a major street and thoroughfare, the U Street Corridor is hard to avoid but it’s worth knowing the risk.
2. New York Ave and Florida Ave NE
Anyone familiar with the Washington D.C. area knows the congestion and traffic that constrict the city during rush-hour – and DC residents tend to drive like they have places to be. That makes any busy intersection an accident waiting to happen, but this one just happens to take the cake.
Due to the sheer number of lanes that contribute to this hectic thoroughfare, you’ll find cars, cyclists, and pedestrians all vying for their right of way. Whereas some roads predominantly feature traffic accidents between cars, the danger at this intersection comes from the variety of transportation modes involved.
There seems to be some debate on where to rank this prominent intersection. Some local papers claim it is the most dangerous area in the entire city, while others highlight more fatal spots. What’s clear, though, is that however you choose to measure danger, this intersection can’t be ignored.
3. Pennsylvania Ave. and 12th Street, NW
You may think Pennsylvania Avenue, which runs the length of the city but is most known for holding the White house, would be the safest street in the city. Unfortunately, this area of town is plagued by out-of-area tourists who are unfamiliar with the area’s roads.
Anyone traveling to the National Mall or visiting our other historic sites is bound to wind up on Pennsylvania Ave. That means pedestrians with maps, touristy teenagers taking selfies, and zooming cars and trucks trying to get to where they need to be. With various types of transportation and varying levels of attention, this area is a hotbed for careless accidents. This holds true especially for the busier months in spring and summer.
4. Pennsylvania Ave. and Anacostia Freeway SE
If you’ve lived in DC for a while, you’ve undoubtedly been forced to swerve, merge, and rush through the Anacostia Freeway interchange. During rush hour, tensions rise, and drivers get close, tailgating in dangerous ways. Add cyclists into the mix and you get an area known for all sorts of issues. While fender-benders are the most common on this road, merging is the riskiest; lane changes are notorious for causing accidents between cars and cyclists.
Regardless of who’s involved (cyclist, pedestrian, or driver), accidents and their recovery often require legal counsel to proceed without issue.
All Roads Are Dangerous, Know The Risk
Don’t let the sensational sound of “most dangerous” roads lull you into a false sense of security when it comes to other roads. Anytime we get behind the wheel of a car or go for a walk on a busy highway, we’re taking a risk. Obviously, we all have places to be, and staying home isn’t always an option. But care must be taken whenever we operate a vehicle or ride a bicycle.
Whether or not you take these four specific routes, you are at risk of being involved in a traffic accident – and whether you’re the victim or at fault, professional advice is usually necessary. Here’s how a lawyer can help you:
- Thorough Investigation: A personal injury lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering all necessary evidence and witness statements to build a strong case.
- Medical Evaluations: They can facilitate access to medical evaluations and expert testimonies needed to support your claim.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Experienced lawyers handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
- Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they are prepared to represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that an experienced and dedicated lawyer is handling your case can provide peace of mind during a difficult and stressful time.
If you believe that you’ve been harmed due to someone’s negligence, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can explain whether or not your claim is viable and the best way to go about pursuing it.
Always make sure you are insured, drive with caution, know your rights, and prepare for the day an accident may occur. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Washington D.C. personal injury attorney if you believe you’ve been injured by someone else’s negligence.