Washington DC is bustling with plenty of traffic congestion. Even with relatively reliable public transportation and increased bicyclists, most people in DC still travel by motor vehicle. This can lead to dangerous intersections as drivers attempt to get through the chaos.
With the combination of people who live and travel within Washington DC every day and the frequent influx of drivers who come from outside the District, there is constant travel in DC. As the number of cars on the roads increases, so does the risk of an accident. One of the best ways to avoid an accident is to be prepared. Knowing the most dangerous intersections in Washington DC will help you do just that.
However, if you are involved in an accident at one of these intersections, contact a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. today for a free consultation. We are here to guide you through filing your claim, and we will work to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Bladensburg Road and New York Avenue
Bladensburg Road and New York Avenue are two major roads leading into the District. According to The District Department of Transportation Crash Composite Index (DDOT), in 2017, this intersection was the most dangerous intersection in DC, with 130 crashes. With more cars rushing through the four lanes in each direction, crashes increased to 165 in 2018.
Minnesota Avenue and Benning Road
The intersection of Minnesota Avenue and Benning Road sees a combination of high-speed vehicular traffic and pedestrian foot traffic, making it one of the most dangerous intersections in Washington DC. In 2017, 63 crashes occurred at this crossroad.
12th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Close to DC’s most popular tourist attractions, such as the Smithsonian Museum, 12th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, located on the edge of the Federal Triangle, see a lot of pedestrian foot traffic. Combined with frequent motor vehicle travel, this intersection is one of the most dangerous places for bike and pedestrian crashes.
Florida Avenue, New York Avenue NE, and First Avenue NE
Dubbed as “Dave Thomas Circle” because of the Wendy’s restaurant in the middle of the conjunction of these streets (now permanently closed), this intersection is on the District’s outskirts and is often fairly congested.
Other Dangerous Intersections in Washington DC
In addition to the intersections listed above, a few other intersections received multiple mentions in several surveys. These include:
North Capitol and New York Avenue
East Capitol Street and Benning Road
Georgia Avenue and Kennedy Street
I St SE & South Capitol Street SE
Connecticut Avenue and Porter Street NW
7th Street, K Street, and Massachusetts Avenue
How to Avoid Accidents at DC’s Most Dangerous Intersections
As we’ve seen, there are some intersections in Washington D.C. that are more dangerous than others. So what can you do to avoid accidents if you find yourself in one of these areas?
First and foremost, use caution when crossing the street. Look both ways before crossing, even if the light is in your favor. There are a lot of pedestrians in these areas, and not all of them will be paying attention.
If you’re driving, be extra cautious when making turns. Use your turn signal, and yield to pedestrians who have the right of way. Remember that pedestrian traffic is heavier in these areas, so it’s important to take your time and drive defensively.
And finally, be aware of your surroundings. These areas are known for being busy, so if you’re walking, be on the lookout for cars and trucks that might not see you. And if you’re driving, be aware of pedestrians who might dart into the street without looking.
What Happens If I’m in an Accident in Washington DC?
Whether you are a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorist, if you’re involved in an accident in Washington D.C., there are a few things you should do.
First, if you are able, move to the side of the road and out of the way of traffic. Then, call 911 and report the accident. Be sure to give them your location and any information about the other parties involved. This will help prevent any further accidents from happening.
If you have a camera on your phone, take pictures of the accident scene. This can be helpful in insurance claims or police reports. Exchange information with the other parties involved. Get their names, phone numbers, and insurance information.
Finally, contact an accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the often complicated legal process, and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
What Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Can Do For You
The Washington, D.C. personal lawyers with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have a proven track record of success in helping clients obtain the maximum compensation possible for injuries they have suffered due to the negligence of others. Our firm has consistently demonstrated we have the expertise needed to help our clients see that justice is served. We have the resources needed to conduct thorough investigations of all the circumstances contributing to an accident, gathering the evidence to establish negligence and other types of liability.
Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. has obtained more than $500 million in verdicts and settlements, and our attorneys have more than a century of combined legal experience. Two of our partners are certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Our firm has also earned the highest AV® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the most respected attorney-ranking service organization in the United States. Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. attorneys work passionately on behalf of our clients to help them secure fair compensation – there is no type of case that is too complex for us to litigate.
How Much Money Can I Receive in an Accident Claim
The best way to find out what your case might be worth is to speak with an attorney with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our accident lawyers have obtained settlements for various car accident cases.
Here are a few of our case results:
- $6 million for a client who suffered a brain injury after being involved in a rear-end collision.
- $4.8 million for a severely injured client after another vehicle struck his motorcycle.
- $1.9 million for a client who suffered a permanent back injury due to a car accident.
- $1.5 million for a client who had to undergo multiple surgeries after a negligent motorist cut off his motorcycle.
- $1 million settlement was obtained on behalf of our 19-year-old client who was a passenger in a car in which the driver lost control, causing a collision. As a result, our client suffered extensive brain damage with cognitive impairment. He was in a coma for an extended period of time. Although he has regained consciousness, he is unable to care for himself. The law firm asked the Court to appoint him a guardian to care for him. The law firm is helping to establish a special needs trust so that the proceeds from the settlement will be protected against any medical liens.
- $1 million settlement on behalf of a client who suffered a brain injury when the driver of the car in which he was a passenger lost control of his vehicle.
Contact an Accident Lawyer Today
If you are looking for the highest level of representation available for your personal injury case, turn to Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C.
We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call (202) 659-8600 or contact us online to get the proven legal representation you deserve.