The city of Seattle is a busy, thriving metropolitan region. With the many economic opportunities within the city, it’s no wonder that traffic is also a challenge for people who call it home. For those who live in Seattle, moving away from the picturesque waterfront and mountains is not an option, but dangerous intersections in the city remain to be a problem that must be addressed. Motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists alike are all at higher risk for accidents when navigating Seattle.
To help keep you safe on the road, Kode Law has compiled this list of the most dangerous intersections in Seattle. While nothing is a substitute for using safe driving strategies every time you take to the road, knowing where the risk is the highest is also helpful in protecting you against an unwanted crash.
If you are involved in a crash, don’t hesitate to call us at 206-866-0484 or reach out online to discover more about our personal injury services.
Car Crash Statistics in Seattle
Why should motorists and pedestrians be wary of the dangerous intersections in Seattle? A closer look at the statistics surrounding car crashes in the state will show why this is such an important concern:
- In 2017, Seattle had 229 crashes at intersections with red lights. Of those, one led to a fatality.
- Between 2014 and 2018, pedestrian and cyclist deaths in traffic collisions rose 50% state-wide.
- Two-thirds of pedestrian and vehicle crashes in the city occur when a vehicle is turning at an intersection.
- In 2018, the city had 13 traffic fatalities.
- Of those, 7 involved pedestrians.
- That same year, 177 serious injuries were reported due to crashes.
- Of those, 98 were pedestrians and bicyclists
Clearly, crashes in Seattle are a cause for concern. That’s why we have created this list to help you take the right precautions on the intersections that carry the highest risk.
Most Dangerous Intersections in Seattle
So which intersections should you watch out for when traveling in Seattle? These are the most dangerous based on the number of crashes involving injuries or fatalities.
1. James Street and Sixth Avenue
According to 2018 statistics, this intersection had eight accidents that caused injuries. This may not seem like much, however, SDOT has reported 101 injury cases connected to this intersection since 2004. While these are concerning statistics, Harborview Medical Center is just across the expressway, meaning emergency medical assistance is within close range.
2. Boren Avenue and Pike Street
Not far from the Washington State Convention Center is another of Seattle’s most dangerous intersections. Boren Avenue and Pike Street had eight accidents in 2018, and this led to three injuries with pedestrians. Part of the reason for the risk here is the high foot traffic of the area. Since 2004, the Boren Avenue and Pike Street intersection has had 67 collisions.
3. Lake City Way NE and NE 130th Street
Here, Seattle drivers must watch out for pedestrians. This Lake City intersection had eight accidents in 2018 as well, and some of those involved pedestrian injuries. Because lake City Way is a major thoroughfare, traffic is heavy at this intersection, and that increases the risk of problems.
4. Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street
This intersection had seven crashes in 2018, and five of those involved cyclists. One of the reasons it is so heavily trafficked is the close proximity to some of Seattle’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Museum of Pop Culture and the Space Needle.
5. 130th and Aurora
The accidents at 130th and Aurora often involve pedestrians, which is surprising because the intersection has a pedestrian overpass. Sadly, many pedestrians fail to use this safety feature, resulting in dangerous collisions. This intersection is on the list due to the frequency of accidents.
6. 23rd Avenue South and Rainier
Finally, 23rd Avenue South and Rainier is one of the most dangerous intersections in Seattle. This intersection has a six-way crossing, which can tend to confuse motorists. Because three roads join at one location, it can be difficult to know which direction to go and who has the right-of-way. The intersection also has crosswalks, which adds to the concern. Motorists need to use extreme caution here.
Seek Help After a Crash from Our Experienced Seattle Law Firm
While using caution at these intersections is important, nothing can completely prevent an accident. If you are hurt at one of these or another of Seattle’s many intersections and are facing serious injuries as a result, getting the right legal help is critical. Kode Law is ready to help. We have a team of car accident attorneys standing by to assist you with your accident and the aftermath.
If you’ve been injured in a crash, schedule a consultation to discuss your accident with one of our attorneys today. We’re standing by to bring you the legal assistance you need.
