Heavy traffic fuels crashes at Chicago's most risky intersections

Drivers and pedestrians in Chicago know that there are many intersections where the threat of an accident is a constant concern. At the intersection of Stony Island Avenue, 79th Street and South Chicago Avenue, a total of 63 car accidents were recorded in 2010, which is why this particular intersection was recently labeled the most dangerous in the Chicago area.

The area's most dangerous intersection is very large, confusing and experiences large volumes of traffic every day. Likewise, the rest of the city's riskiest intersections face similar problems. As drivers become overwhelmed by imprecise traffic signals and signs, they begin to panic and accidents happen.

Residents familiar with the notorious intersections understand that many of these streets are not safe for pedestrians or drivers. One particular resident indicated that she no longer drives and feels as though pedestrians risk their health every time they cross the city's most dangerous junctions.

Fortunately, city officials are paying attention and they realize that something must be done to mitigate the risks posed to drivers and pedestrians. As such, they are trying to develop traffic control solutions that will allow traffic to flow efficiently while protecting the safety of those on the road. In the meantime, local safety officials urge drivers to obey traffic signs and posted speed limits.

As dangerous roads continue to plague the city, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will have to exercise extra caution. Until every driver on the road uses the kind of caution and attention required to navigate city streets, people will continue to be involved in accidents and pay the consequences. Another way individuals can protect themselves is to understand their rights in the situation that they are the victim of a car accident. If negligence is at the root of an accident, those injured may have the ability to seek legal recourse.

Source: The Chicago Sun-Times, "The Chicago area's 20 most dangerous intersections," Tina Sfondeles, April 30, 2012