Dangerous Intersections in Vancouver
Although Vancouver offers beautiful landscapes, like many urban areas, it faces challenges with car accidents and road safety. Among these challenges, certain intersections have gained notoriety for being particularly hazardous for drivers.
Between 2014 and 2023, a total of 106 motor vehicle accident fatalities were reported in Vancouver, Washington, with the data showing an upward trend as fatalities increased to 17 in 2023, up from 12 in 2022 and 9 in 2021. [1]
What Are The Most Dangerous Intersections for Car Accidents in Vancouver, Washington?
In Vancouver, several intersections have been identified as particularly dangerous for car accidents due to high traffic volumes and various hazards.
Here are some of the worst intersections that have historically been noted for a higher incidence of accidents:
- Mill Plain Boulevard and Chkalov Road: One of the top crash intersections is Mill Plain Boulevard and Chkalov Road, which reported a staggering 80 crashes in recent years, five of which involved fatal crashes or serious injuries. [2] This intersection has seen numerous accidents annually, particularly during peak rush hours. High traffic volume, frequent turning vehicles, and close proximity to shopping centers contribute to the crash statistics.
- Mill Plain Boulevard at Southeast 164th Avenue: Another critical intersection is Mill Plain Boulevard at Southeast 164th Avenue, which saw 52 crashes. [2] This area also suffers from high vehicle congestion and poses risks for commuters.
- Mill Plain and Hearthwood: The intersection of Mill Plain Boulevard and Hearthwood Boulevard has been a notable location for motor vehicle accidents over the years. This intersection is significant due to its heavy traffic volume, as it serves as a primary route for both local residents and commuters. Between 2016 and 2020, 81 crashes were reported at this intersection. [3]
- Fourth Plain and Fort Vancouver Way: The intersection of Fourth Plain Boulevard and Fort Vancouver Way has gained notoriety as one of the most hazardous crossings in the area.
Fourth Plain Boulevard is a major east-west thoroughfare, heavily trafficked by both personal vehicles and commercial trucks. Between 2016 and 2020, this intersection was the site of an alarming 75 reported crashes. [3] - Tech Center & 164th: The Tech Center Drive and 164th Avenue intersection can be confusing for some drivers, particularly those who may not be familiar with the area. This is due to problems with visibility due to landscaping, inadequate signage, and the presence of multiple lanes. High traffic volumes during peak commuting hours can exacerbate these issues, leading to a greater likelihood of collisions. The intersection experienced 64 crashes between 2016 and 2020. [3]
- NE Hazel Dell Avenue, Main Street & I-5. This intersection has witnessed a number of serious accidents over the years. The curve and angle of the road obstruct visibility to the right, contributing to safety concerns. Proposed improvements include optimizing traffic light timing and eliminating the current yield sign.
What Are The Causes of Car Accidents in Vancouver's Intersections?
Car accidents at intersections in Vancouver, Washington, can be attributed to a variety of causes. Here are some common causes of car accidents at intersections in the area:
- Left Turn Crashes: These occur when a driver makes a left turn and either fails to yield to oncoming traffic or misjudges the timing of their turn. Left turn crashes often result in serious injuries due to the angle of the collision, which can involve a head-on impact with oncoming vehicles.
- Disregarding Traffic Signals: Drivers may run red lights or ignore stop signs, leading to collisions with cross traffic. Intersection crashes caused by running red lights are a significant contributor to accidents, often resulting in severe outcomes.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Some drivers fail to stop at red lights or stop signs, often due to impatience or misjudgment of speed. This behavior can cause serious accidents, as cross traffic may not be expecting vehicles to enter the intersection.
- Poor Visibility: Intersections may have obstructions like trees, buildings, or poor signage that block drivers’ views. Limited visibility can prevent drivers from seeing oncoming traffic or pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, including rain, fog, or ice can make road surfaces slippery, reduce visibility, and may lead to longer stopping distances and increased likelihood of accidents at intersections.
- Confusing Road Layout: Complex intersections with multiple lanes, turning options, and unclear signage can confuse drivers. A lack of clarity can lead to reckless or incorrect driving decisions, contributing to accidents.
- Mechanical Failures: Malfunctioning vehicle parts, such as brakes or steering, can lead to loss of control at critical moments. Mechanical issues can prevent drivers from stopping in time or navigating intersections safely.
What Are The Different Types of Traffic Accidents That Occur in Intersections in Vancouver, Washington?
Car crashes in intersections can vary widely in type and severity. In Vancouver, Washington, like many other cities, various types of car collisions commonly occur at intersections. Here are some of the different types of car accidents that can happen:
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. They often happen due to sudden stops, distracted driving, or following too closely. At intersections, this might happen when a driver is waiting at a red light and is hit from behind by a driver who is not paying attention.
- Left Turn Accidents: Left turn accidents can happen due to misjudgment of distance, failure to see oncoming vehicles, or rushing the turn. This is particularly common at busy intersections where drivers have to assess gaps in traffic.
- Running Red Lights: Red light accidents can stem from distractions, impatience, or misjudgment of traffic signals. This type of crash often results in high-speed impacts and can be especially dangerous for pedestrians.
- Multi-Vehicle Collisions: Involve three or more vehicles at an intersection. These can escalate from one initial accident, such as a rear-end collision, leading to multiple cars being involved. A common cause is a driver making a risky maneuver that forces nearby vehicles to react quickly.
- Collisions with Fixed Objects: These happen when a vehicle crashes into a sign, traffic light, utility pole, or any other stationary object at the intersection. These can occur due to high-speed turns, poor visibility, or drunk driving. A driver may swerve to avoid a collision with another vehicle and end up hitting a fixed object.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident at an intersection in Vancouver, Washington, contact Goldberg & Loren’s car accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
FAQs
Several factors contribute to accidents, including:
- High traffic volume and congestion
- Lack of proper signage or signal timing
- Poor visibility due to lighting or obstructions
- Distracted driving and driver inattention
- Weather conditions affecting road safety
If you find yourself in an accident:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt
- Move to a safe location if possible and render aid to anyone in need
- Exchange information with other parties involved (names, addresses, insurance info)
- Document the scene with photos and notes
- Report the incident to your insurance company and consider contacting a personal injury attorney if necessary
Sources:
[1] Fatalities Dashboard – Washington Traffic Safety Commission. (2023, October 9). Washington Traffic Safety Commission. https://wtsc.wa.gov/dashboards/fatalities-dashboard/
[2] Pesanti, D. (2018, July 11). Serious crashes on rise in Vancouver. The Columbian. https://www.columbian.com/news/2018/jul/09/serious-crashes-on-rise-in-vancouver/
[3] Local Road Safety Plan 2022-2026. (n.d.). City of Vancouver, Washington. Retrieved September 1, 2024, from https://www.cityofvancouver.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/vancouver_lrsp_09122022.pdf
