Driving in D.C. is a health hazard. We aren't exaggerating. By one measure, motorists in the nation's capital are twice as likely to crash as the national average. The bottom line is that some of the most dangerous roadways are in Washington D.C. Why you ask? Crowded streets, inattentive drivers, and speed racers, among many reasons.
Fortunately, FindLaw has complied a list of some of most dangerous roadways and intersections in D.C. Motorists trying to navigate around the four quadrants in D.C. know that some intersections can be particularly dangerous. Be alert. Be sober. Be careful. If you are involved in a car crash, you may want to seek the advice of a personal injury attorney.
New York Ave. and Florida Avenue NE
This is ground zero for car crashes in the District. It's a congested intersection, period. There are several lanes of traffic in all directions combined with impatient people trying to get to work, school, and everywhere else. One study named this as the most accident-prone intersection in all of D.C. Keep in mind that New York Ave. is a major east-west route in the city's Northwest and Northeast quadrants.
14th Street and U Street, NW:
This is one of the most hip strips in all of D.C. The intersection is the gateway to a thriving nightlife. You can bet there are drunk drivers, speeders, and text messagers around. After a night of drinking and watching retro-pop duos at the Black Cat, leave the driving to someone else and hail a old-fashioned taxi.
Pennsylvania Ave. and 12th Street, NW
Pedestrians, beware. This is tourist central. It's close to the Smithsonian and right in the heart of the Federal Triangle, FBI Headquarters, and the Archives.
18th Street and Columbia Road, NW:
This is the heart of the Adams Morgan and is a major nightlife area with many bars and restaurants, particularly along 18th Street. It's densely packed with pedestrians, bicyclists, and the occasional skateboarder.
Pennsylvania Ave. and Anacostia Freeway SE
Pennsylvania Ave. has becomes a nightmarish bottleneck at certain times of day. Watch for fender benders and cars following too closely. The main thing to remember at this intersection is to obey traffic signs and watch for oncoming traffic
Arlington Boulevard and South Washington Boulevard
Technically this is in Arlington, right across the Potomac River. Yet, many people drive this route to get to work every day. The intersection saw 45 accidents from May 2012 to April 2013 -- the most of any intersection in Arlington County. Why? The interchange was built in 1944, back when design standards and cars were different. Poor signal timing plays a huge factor here.
16th U Street and New Hampshire, NW
Cyclists, you are a moving target at this intersection. This area had several reported bike accidents. This intersection also has a history of producing major traffic headaches. Consider taking an alternate route or avoid it altogether if you can.
Remember, if you are involved in a car crash, remain calm. Make sure everyone is safe and then call 911 or the Metropolitan Police Department.
