Most Dangerous Intersections in Phoenix, AZ

Driving in a bustling city like Phoenix, Arizona, can be challenging. With its sprawling urban landscape and constant growth, certain areas become hotspots for traffic incidents. Understanding where these "danger zones" are and why they pose risks is crucial for every driver. This guide explores the most dangerous intersections in Phoenix, the factors behind high crash rates, and practical ways to stay safe.

We'll look at intersections identified by recent traffic data, discuss common causes of collisions, and highlight safe driving practices. If you're ever involved in an accident, we’ll also cover the essential next steps and how Game Time Attorneys can help with intersection crash claims.

Understanding Phoenix Traffic Dangers

Phoenix consistently ranks among cities with significant traffic safety concerns. The sheer volume of vehicles, combined with specific urban design elements and driver behaviors, creates a challenging environment.

Phoenix's High Collision Rates

Phoenix experiences a high number of traffic collisions annually. In 2024, the city recorded 37,472 total crashes, including 265 fatal crashes and 10,449 injuries—the highest collision volume in Arizona.

Arizona's National Ranking for Intersection Crashes

Arizona ranks 3rd nationally for intersection crashes, averaging over 4 intersection crashes per 100,000 residents—about 50% above the national average of 2.78. These statewide trends are felt daily in Phoenix.

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Phoenix's Top Hazard Zones

Certain intersections repeatedly appear in crash data due to heavy traffic, complex layouts, and frequent driver errors.

Intersections with the Highest Crash Counts

Based on public crash data (2018–2022), several intersections stand out:

• 67th Avenue & McDowell Road: 229 crashes. Busy residential/commercial mix drives congestion and risky maneuvers.

• 51st Avenue & Camelback Road: 174 crashes. Heavy rush-hour turns into shopping centers.

• 67th Avenue & Thomas Road: 128 crashes. Similar commercial surroundings increase complexity.

• 19th Avenue & Peoria Avenue: 105 crashes. Multiple shopping centers, bus stops, and high pedestrian activity.

Geographic Trends of Dangerous Intersections

Many high-risk intersections cluster on avenues west of Central Avenue where dense residential and commercial activity increases conflict points.

Phoenix’s Most Dangerous Intersections (2018–2022)

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Why These Intersections Are Dangerous

Crashes concentrate where infrastructure, traffic volume, and human error intersect.

Common Contributing Factors

• High Traffic Volume: More vehicles = more conflicts, especially at peak times.

• Complex Turning Movements: Multiple turn lanes and unprotected lefts lead to misjudged gaps and failures to yield.

• Poor Visibility or Design: Obstructed views, inadequate lighting, or confusing signage.

• Congestion and Speeding: Rushing yellow lights raises crash severity.

Specific Risks: Red-Light Running and Left Turns

1. Red-Light Running: “Beating the light” leads to severe angle (T-bone) crashes.

2. Left-Turn Conflicts: Without protected signals, drivers must judge oncoming speed/distance—prime ground for decision errors.

The Impact of Driver Behavior

Human choices behind the wheel can dramatically raise or reduce risk.

Damaging Driver Behaviors

• Speeding: Reduces reaction time and increases impact force.

• Impaired Driving: Alcohol/drugs compromise judgment and reaction.

• Distracted Driving: Phones and in-car distractions delay responses.

• Aggressive Driving: Tailgating and weaving create unpredictable chains of events.

Recognition vs. Decision Errors

• Recognition Errors: Not noticing a changing signal, a pedestrian, or cross-traffic (distraction/fatigue).

• Decision Errors: Unsafe turns, pushing a stale yellow/red, forcing into tight gaps (impatience/overconfidence).

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Strategies for Safer Phoenix Roads

Improving safety takes both individual responsibility and community-level changes.

What Drivers Can Do

• Practice Defensive Driving: Anticipate hazards; keep safe following distance.

• Eliminate Distractions: Phone down, eyes up.

• Obey Traffic Laws: Respect speed limits, fully stop at red lights/stop signs, signal turns, don’t “beat” yellows.

• Scan Intersections: Look for peds/cyclists and potential red-light runners.

• Never Drive Impaired: Use a designated driver or rideshare.

Community & Infrastructure Solutions

• Better Signage & Signal Timing: Reduces confusion and smooths flow.

• Enhanced Lighting: Improves nighttime visibility.

• Speed Management: Enforcement and traffic calming (FHWA highlights speed management as critical).

• Community Engagement: Awareness campaigns and local safety initiatives.

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If You're Involved in a Phoenix Intersection Crash

Even careful drivers can be hit at these danger zones. Knowing what to do next is crucial—and can protect your health and claim.

Immediate Steps

1. Ensure Safety: Move to safety if possible; hazards on.

2. Call 911: Get police/EMS; a report is vital for insurance.

3. Exchange Information: Parties, vehicles, insurance; don’t admit fault.

4. Document the Scene: Photos/video of damage, signals, lanes, injuries, conditions.

5. Seek Medical Care: Some injuries show late—get checked.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Intersection cases often involve complex liability and serious injuries. Game Time Attorneys can: investigate thoroughly (video/witnesses/reconstruction), prove fault (e.g., red-light running/unsafe lefts), assess full damages, negotiate with insurers, and navigate Arizona’s rules to protect your claim.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the most dangerous intersections in Phoenix?
67th Ave & McDowell Rd; 51st Ave & Camelback Rd; 67th Ave & Thomas Rd; 19th Ave & Peoria Ave—based on multi-year crash counts.

Why are some intersections more dangerous?
High volumes, complex turns, visibility/design issues, speeding, distraction, and red-light running.

How can I stay safe at these spots?
Drive defensively, eliminate distractions, obey signals/speeds, and scan both ways before entering on green.

What should I do after an intersection crash?
Secure safety, call 911, exchange info, document everything, and get medical care.

Do red-light cameras help?
They aim to deter red-light running and reduce severe angle crashes; effectiveness varies by site.

Conclusion

Phoenix’s riskiest intersections—like 67th & McDowell and 51st & Camelback—combine heavy traffic, complex layouts, and risky behavior. Defensive driving and targeted infrastructure fixes can reduce harm. If you’re hurt in an intersection crash, Game Time Attorneys can guide your next steps and fight for full compensation.