Arizona’s Top 5 Most Dangerous Intersections and What You Can Do to Stay Safe

#1  I-10 and 7th Avenue, Phoenix 

Why It’s Dangerous: The intersection of I-10 and 7th Avenue is notorious for its high traffic volume and the frequent merging of vehicles. With limited signage and often congested conditions, drivers can easily make mistakes, leading to accidents. The highway’s high speed limits, combined with frequent lane changes, create a perfect storm for collisions. 

Safety Tips:

• Stay alert and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, especially during peak traffic hours. 
• Be cautious when merging onto the highway, giving yourself plenty of time and space. 
• Always use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns. 

#2  19th Avenue and Dunlap Avenue, Phoenix 

Why It’s Dangerous: This intersection has seen its fair share of accidents due to its location near schools and shopping centers. Pedestrian traffic, along with drivers rushing to make turns, can make it a dangerous spot. Poor visibility at certain times of the day can also add to the risk of accidents. 

Safety Tips:

• Always stop for pedestrians, even if they’re not at a marked crosswalk. 
• Slow down when approaching intersections, especially during school hours or busy shopping periods. 
• Be extra cautious when making left turns, as other vehicles may not yield the right-of-way. 

#3  Broadway Road and 40th Street, Phoenix 

Why It’s Dangerous: Broadway Road and 40th Street is an intersection where speeding, distracted driving, and running red lights are common causes of accidents. The road curves and narrows, making it harder for drivers to anticipate traffic flow and make safe decisions. 

Safety Tips:

• Reduce speed when approaching intersections with curves or narrow lanes. 
• Pay attention to traffic lights, and never rush through yellow lights. 
• Avoid using your phone while driving—stay focused on the road, especially in high-traffic areas. 

#4  Baseline Road and Alma School Road, Mesa 

Why It’s Dangerous: This intersection in Mesa has seen numerous accidents due to its proximity to residential areas, schools, and a busy commercial zone. Drivers turning left often don’t yield to oncoming traffic, leading to T-bone accidents. Additionally, high pedestrian traffic makes it important to watch for people crossing the street. 

Safety Tips:

• When turning left, always wait until the intersection is clear, and give oncoming drivers enough time to pass. 
• Be mindful of pedestrians, especially during rush hours and school pickup times. 
• Watch for cyclists who might be in the bike lanes near the intersection. 

#5  US-60 and Power Road, East Valley 

Why It’s Dangerous: The intersection of US-60 and Power Road is a major crossroad in the East Valley. The high-speed traffic on US-60, combined with frequent turning vehicles, creates a challenging and dangerous environment. Drivers trying to beat red lights or make quick turns can easily cause accidents in this busy area. 

Safety Tips: 

• Avoid rushing through red lights—waiting for the green light can save you from a collision. 
• Be patient and allow turning vehicles to go first. 
• Always scan for vehicles making last-minute maneuvers, especially when traffic is heavy. 

General Tips for Staying Safe

in Arizona’s Dangerous Intersections:

No matter which intersection you’re navigating, these general driving safety tips can help you stay safe: 

• Keep Your Distance: Tailgating is a major cause of accidents. Always keep a safe following distance, especially when approaching busy intersections. 
• Be Aware of Blind Spots: Large vehicles like trucks or buses can block your view of other cars and pedestrians. Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or turning. 
• Use Your Turn Signal: A simple action like using your turn signal can prevent accidents by clearly communicating your intentions to other drivers. 
• Slow Down: Speeding reduces your ability to react in time if something unexpected happens. Slowing down can make all the difference when approaching intersections.