Phoenix, the bustling heart of Arizona, has its share of treacherous crossroads. Among these, two intersections in 85301 pose significant threats to road users, with an alarming number of accidents recorded in recent years.
Intersection 1: Glendale and 43rd Ave – The Hidden Danger
Between 2017-2021, this intersection witnessed 189 crashes, placing it among Maricopa County’s top ten high-risk intersections. Let’s delve into the unique factors contributing to its risk level.
Intersection Two: Glendale and 35th Ave – A Close Proximity Peril
Just blocks away, 3434 W Glendale Ave surpassed its neighbor with a staggering 194 crashes in the same period, underscoring the urgent need for safety measures in this area.
A Deeper Look: Specific Factors Amplifying Risks
Though the usual suspects of high traffic, speeding, and distracted driving apply, these intersections have unique challenges that exacerbate accident risks.
1. Influx of Out-of-Town Visitors
Both intersections lie near prominent retail and dining districts, attracting a high volume of out-of-town visitors unfamiliar with the local traffic patterns, potentially leading to navigation errors.
2. Suboptimal Traffic Signal Placement
Reports suggest that the positioning of some traffic signals at these intersections may be less than ideal, leading to occasional confusion among drivers.
3. Confusing Lane Organization
Critics argue that the lane organization, especially for turns, at both these intersections is confusing, causing last-minute lane changes that can result in accidents.
4. Frequent Bus Stops
With several nearby bus stops, these intersections experience periodic traffic slowdowns, leading to impatient driving behaviors.
5. Lack of Cyclist Infrastructure
Cyclist infrastructure is lacking at these locations. The resultant shared road space can cause misunderstandings between drivers and cyclists, leading to accidents.
Intersection Safety – A Community Effort
While the intersections at 4302 and 3434 W Glendale Ave have seen a troubling number of accidents, change is possible. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and together, we can transform these “intersections of trouble” into safer passages for all.
Maricopa County’s Top 10 Most Dangerous Intersections
To gain a better understanding of the risk areas in our community, you can check out this link which provides a comprehensive map detailing Maricopa County’s Top 10 Most Dangerous Intersections.
