The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has ranked the most dangerous intersections in Minnesota. The rankings are based on a weighted average of crash severity from accidents that occurred between 2006 and 2010. Accidents that resulted in fatalities were given a higher point value than those resulting in minor injuries or property damage.
The Worst Intersections in the Twin Cities
The rankings listed the 20 worst intersections across the state. The following are the four worst intersections in the metro area:
•· I-94 at Snelling Avenue North in Saint Paul. This intersection is dangerous because it is highly congested. Driving while distracted and running red lights are cited as causes of many accidents at this intersection. A total of 222 crashes occurred at this site; three accidents resulted in fatalities, two caused severe, life-altering injuries and 10 resulted in moderate injuries.
•· Hiawatha (Hwy 55) and 26th Street in Minneapolis. Accidents occur at this intersection because it is the first stop light coming off of the freeway. Motorists speed off the freeway without realizing the stoplight is ahead and rear-end the cars stopped at the light. A total of 144 crashes occurred at this site; two accidents resulted in fatalities, two caused severe, life-altering injuries and 17 resulted in moderate injuries.
•· Highway 252 and 66th Ave in Brooklyn Center. This heavily traveled intersection makes the list because of its “free right turn” – a right turn lane that curves, allowing drivers to bypass the stoplight. Drivers using the free right turn often fail to yield when entering traffic, causing numerous accidents at this site. A total of 172 crashes occurred at this intersection; one of which resulted in a fatality and 12 of the accidents caused moderate injuries.
•· I-94 and Olson Highway. Confusion is the culprit with this intersection – drivers just don’t know where to go. A total of 113 accidents occurred at this site; two of which caused severe, life-altering injuries and 17 crashes that caused moderate injuries.
Being aware of these crash-prone intersections may help to keep Minnesota motorists safer. Drivers that are aware of the dangers associated with these intersections can proceed more cautiously and, when possible, avoid the intersections by taking an alternative route. Additionally, some of the locations in MnDOT’s list of the 20 most dangerous intersections have already been renovated to reduce car accident rates.
Knowledge, however, will not eliminate accidents entirely. There will still be negligent drivers who fail to exercise caution while driving through these intersections. If you have been injured in an accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.