October 26th, 2020

Knowing the dangers you face every day on California’s roads can make you a safer, more conscientious driver. It might surprise you to learn that one of the most dangerous and common dangers is something you probably encounter every day: intersections. Intersections, both those with traffic signals and stop signs, present unique dangers to motorists. Though most people rarely consider these dangers, doing so can help ensure drivers know how to identify and avoid risks. The following statistics illustrate just how dangerous intersections are.

National Intersection-Related Crash Statistics

  • About 40% of crashes in the U.S. are intersection-related.
  • Intersection-related crash deaths account for more than 20% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. every year.
  • Around 96% of intersection-related crashes had contributing factors related to driver behavior.
  • Nearly one-fifth of intersection-related fatalities involve motorcycles.
  • Around 41% of pedestrian collisions occur at roadway intersections.
  • Each year, an average of around 31% of intersection-related deaths occur at intersections controlled by traffic signals, and around 38% occur at intersections with stop signs.

Annual Intersection Crash Deaths by California County

In California, the most heavily populated counties have the highest intersection-related crash deaths. Here is the average number of crash deaths involving intersections for 10 of the most populous counties in California:
  1. Los Angeles County has an average of 259 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  2. San Diego County has an average of 2 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  3. Orange County has an average of 4 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  4. Riverside County has an average of 4 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  5. San Bernardino County has an average of 6 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  6. Santa Clara County has an average of 6 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  7. Alameda County has an average of 6 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  8. Sacramento County has an average of 38 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  9. Contra Costa County has an average of 6 intersection-related crash deaths each year.
  10. Fresno County has an average of 8 intersection-related crash deaths each year.

Why These Numbers Matter

Intersection crashes are common and deadly. For some of our most vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists and pedestrians, they’re even more lethal. The more drivers understand how important safety is when passing through intersections, the more we can expect these numbers to improve.

Intersection Safety Tips

  • Never assume that cross-traffic won’t be an issue when your light is green. Many intersection crashes occur when a driver runs a red light.
  • Never assume a pedestrian sees you coming. Always yield to pedestrians and drive slowly in heavily walked areas.
  • When turning left, remember that oncoming motorcycles might be traveling faster than they appear.
  • If turning right at a red light, be sure the vehicle in front of you turns safely before you accelerate. This will help you avoid rear-end collisions.
  • Always come to a complete stop at stop signs, and make sure you wait your turn at four-way stops.

If You Need Help, Contact Berg Injury Lawyers

If you or a loved one is injured by a negligent driver, whether it’s at an intersection or any other stretch of road, the California car accident attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers are here to help. Contact our team today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.