As a car accident lawyer, people have contacted me about some of devastating accidents, many of which occur at dangerous intersections. Florida has some of the most notorious intersections for car crashes. Understanding where these danger zones are and why they’re so risky can help you stay safe on the road. 

Today we look at the top 5 most dangerous intersections in Florida and share some safety tips to navigate them carefully.

1. SR-836 and NW 87th Avenue, Miami

This intersection is notorious for its heavy traffic and complex design, with multiple lanes and constant merging. The confusing design, combined with high speeds, makes this spot one of Florida’s most dangerous intersections. According to a report by Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), there were over 450 crashes at this intersection in 2022.

Safety Tip: Stay alert and always check your blind spots when merging. Stick to posted speed limits and avoid distractions, such as using your phone, when approaching this intersection.

2. US-19 and Tampa Road, Pinellas County

The intersection at US-19 and Tampa Road is known for high volumes of daily traffic and is a hotspot for accidents. This area sees a combination of local and highway traffic, which leads to frequent rear-end collisions and side-impact crashes. In 2022 alone, over 400 accidents were reported at this intersection.

Safety Tip: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and be cautious when changing lanes. Defensive driving is crucial in heavy traffic.

3. I-95 and SR-44, Volusia County

I-95 is a high-speed interstate that merges with local traffic at the SR-44 exit, creating a dangerous mix of speeding vehicles and slow-moving cars. This intersection is particularly risky for rear-end collisions due to sudden stops. In 2022, over 370 accidents occurred here.

Safety Tip: Always be prepared to slow down and keep an eye out for sudden lane changes. When merging onto I-95, make sure you’re at an appropriate speed to blend smoothly into traffic.

4. SR-408 and SR-50, Orlando

Located in the heart of Orlando, this intersection is a nightmare during rush hour. The combination of fast-moving vehicles and tight turns has caused a high occurrence of side-impact car wrecks. FHSMV reports that there were more than 330 crashes here in 2022.

Safety Tip: Use your indicators early when approaching turns and make sure to yield when necessary. Patience is key, especially during peak traffic hours.

5. Tamiami Trail and US-41, Sarasota

Tamiami Trail at US-41 is particularly dangerous due to its wide lanes and lack of traffic lights in some areas. Pedestrians and cyclists frequently cross this intersection, which adds a much higher level of risk. In 2022, more than 300 crashes occurred at this site.

Safety Tip: Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists and always stop at marked crosswalks. Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid making abrupt lane changes.

Driving Safely Through Florida’s Intersections

Understanding the risks of these intersections can help you become a safer driver:

• Always approach busy intersections with caution.

• Follow traffic laws conservatively.

• Be patient, especially in high-traffic areas.

• Pay attention to detail so you can pick out cyclists and pedestrians. 

If you or a loved one has been hurt on these or other of Florida’s dangerous roads, contact your Florida’s car accident lawyer for help!