According to the most recent data from the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), Birmingham and greater Jefferson County saw 26,354 accidents in one recent year. The area also had 103 traffic fatalities, eight of which had apparent alcohol or drug involvement.
As the state’s largest metro area with nearly 1.2 million people, Birmingham accounts for just under 20 percent of Alabama’s traffic accidents. But of Alabama’s most dangerous roads, which ones do Birmingham residents need to be most concerned about?
What Are Birmingham’s Most Dangerous Roads?
According to City-Data.com, the following are among Birmingham’s most dangerous roads:
- Interstate 20
- Interstate 59
- Interstate 65
- South Shades Crest Road
- Jefferson Avenue Southwest
The data aggregators based their assessment of the most dangerous highways and other roads in Birmingham on the total number of car accidents and the number of injuries and fatalities they caused.
Dangerous Intersections in Birmingham
Popular opinion regarding Birmingham’s most dangerous intersections and roads frequently cites the following as some of the places drivers know they need to be especially vigilant or avoid altogether:
- Interstate 20 West near the Interstate 59 interchange, also known as “Dead Man’s Curve”
- S. 280 and State Route 119, which the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office cites as its number one intersection to target for reducing collisions
- University Boulevard and 28th Street near the University of Alabama at Birmingham, once cited by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as the state’s most dangerous intersection
- The Interstate 20, Interstate 59, and Interstate 65 interchange, locally known as “Malfunction Junction,” which sees 400,000 vehicles per day, including substantial commercial traffic
Staying Safe on Birmingham Roads
All Birmingham drivers have a responsibility to operate their vehicles in a way that reduces the likelihood of accidents. This applies even when contending with challenges such as heavy traffic, sudden slowdowns, road construction, fast-moving interstate traffic, and confusing or unfamiliar road designs. Take the following simple precautions to protect yourself and your passengers:
- Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, especially in heavy or fast-moving traffic.
- Watch for sudden lane changes, merging traffic, and drivers who may be speeding or distracted.
- Slow down in rain or poor visibility, since wet pavement can make it harder to stop safely.
- Avoid distractions like texting, eating, adjusting apps, or reaching for items while driving.
- Check your blind spots carefully before turning or changing lanes.
- Use extra caution at intersections, where many serious collisions happen.
- Secure children in the proper car seat, booster seat, or seat belt before every trip.
- Stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and road crews, particularly in busy commercial areas and neighborhoods.
Contact Our Birmingham Car Accident Attorneys for Help
If you were involved in a collision on one of Alabama’s most dangerous roads, you may be dealing with significant physical injuries and medical expenses. If you can’t earn a living while you heal, the financial strain may quickly become unmanageable. Let the team at Collins Law, LLC, push back against attempts to blame you for the crash and fight for the full, fair compensation you deserve. Contact our Birmingham law office today to get started with a free, no-obligation, fully confidential consultation.
