CALIFORNIA, Md. — Intersections are among the most complex places on any road. Drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and larger vehicles often move through the same space at the same time, creating more opportunities for mistakes. While no single intersection is dangerous in every situation, some locations experience repeated serious crashes because of traffic volume, road design, visibility challenges or driver behavior.
Nationally, roughly one-quarter of traffic fatalities and about half of all traffic injuries are attributed to intersections, according to the Federal Highway Administration. The agency notes that wherever roads intersect and paths cross, the resulting conflict points create circumstances where crashes can occur.
For Maryland drivers, understanding what makes an intersection higher risk can help reduce the chances of becoming involved in a collision. Whether you commute through Washington, Baltimore, Anne Arundel County or Southern Maryland, recognizing warning signs and adjusting your driving habits can improve safety throughout the year.
What Can Make An Intersection Higher Risk?
Several factors may increase the likelihood of crashes at an intersection. Heavy traffic is one of the most obvious. More vehicles entering from multiple directions create more potential conflict points.
Road design also plays a role. Intersections with multiple turn lanes, closely spaced entrances to shopping centers or complicated traffic patterns can require drivers to process a large amount of information in a short time. The Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) 2022 data shows unsignalized intersections nationally saw more fatalities than signalized ones — 7,832 compared to 4,204 — while red-light running was a factor in 1,272 fatalities at signalized intersections, according to the FHWA.
Visibility matters as well. Hills, curves, parked vehicles, trees or buildings may limit a driver’s ability to see approaching traffic, pedestrians or cyclists until the last moment.
Speed is another important factor. Roads with higher speed limits or wide travel lanes may encourage faster driving, reducing the time available to react when another driver makes an unexpected move. Speed was a factor in roughly 8,000 Maryland crashes and about 99 traffic deaths a year, based on 2019-2023 data from Zero Deaths Maryland, the state’s highway safety program run through the Maryland Department of Transportation.
Driver behavior often contributes to serious crashes regardless of the road itself. Distracted driving, speeding, aggressive lane changes, running red lights and failing to yield all increase the risk of collisions. Distracted driving is the leading contributing factor identified in Maryland crashes, tied to an estimated 51,000 crashes annually, according to Zero Deaths Maryland data compiled by the Maryland Highway Safety Office.
Warning Signs To Watch For
Drivers can often recognize intersections that deserve extra caution before reaching them.
Some common signs include:
- Multiple left-turn lanes or several through lanes.
- Heavy traffic during morning or evening commutes.
- Limited sight lines caused by curves, hills or roadside features.
- Frequent entrances and exits for shopping centers or businesses.
- Areas with significant pedestrian or bicycle activity.
- Intersections where drivers often brake suddenly or change lanes at the last minute.
Pedestrians and bicyclists are especially vulnerable at these locations. Pedestrians were involved in an estimated 2,710 Maryland crashes a year and about 135 deaths over a recent five-year period, according to Zero Deaths Maryland crash data. Nationally, pedestrian and bicyclist deaths occur at both signalized and unsignalized intersections, the FHWA reports.
Even if an intersection appears familiar, traffic conditions can change because of weather, construction, special events or seasonal travel.
Defensive Driving Strategies That Can Help
Safe driving begins before entering the intersection. Reducing speed slightly while approaching gives drivers more time to recognize hazards and respond smoothly.
Maintain a safe following distance. Tailgating limits reaction time if the vehicle ahead stops unexpectedly for a yellow light, a pedestrian or emergency vehicle.
Look beyond the vehicle directly in front of you. Scan traffic signals, cross traffic and sidewalks for developing hazards. Checking mirrors before entering the intersection also helps identify vehicles approaching quickly from behind.
Avoid distractions during the busiest parts of your drive. Looking at a phone, adjusting navigation or reaching for an item inside the vehicle for even a few seconds can cause a driver to miss changing traffic conditions.
When the light turns green, avoid accelerating immediately without checking for vehicles that may enter against the signal. Taking an extra moment to confirm the intersection is clear can prevent a serious crash.
Drivers making left turns should wait for an adequate gap instead of rushing through oncoming traffic. Misjudging another vehicle’s speed is a common cause of intersection collisions.
Maryland Weather Can Increase The Risk
Weather can quickly change driving conditions across Maryland. Rain reduces tire traction and increases stopping distances. Fog may limit visibility, especially during early morning hours in rural areas. Snow and ice can make intersections particularly slippery because vehicles repeatedly brake and accelerate in the same location.
During poor weather, increase following distance, reduce speed and allow additional time for trips. Extra caution is especially important when approaching traffic signals and stop signs.
What To Do If You Notice A Recurring Safety Concern
Residents sometimes notice patterns before official improvements occur. If you regularly observe confusing traffic patterns, damaged signs, blocked visibility or signal problems at a local intersection, consider reporting the issue to the appropriate transportation agency or local government. Providing accurate information about recurring concerns may help officials evaluate conditions and determine whether changes are needed.
On state-maintained roads, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) accepts non-emergency reports — including damaged signs, malfunctioning signals and other roadway concerns — through its online service request portal. Traffic signal outages, sinkholes and other urgent highway issues can be reported to the Statewide Operations Center at 1-800-543-2515 (toll-free) or 410-582-5650. General questions can be directed to MDOT SHA customer service at 410-545-0300 or 800-323-6742, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Toll facilities such as I-95, the Bay Bridge and the Fort McHenry Tunnel are maintained separately by the Maryland Transportation Authority, and roads within Baltimore City should be reported through the city’s 311 service, according to MDOT SHA.
Drivers should also pay attention to temporary traffic changes during construction projects. New lane alignments or temporary signals can create unfamiliar conditions until work is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes some Maryland intersections more dangerous than others?
Higher traffic volumes, complicated road layouts, limited visibility, higher speeds and unsafe driving behaviors can all increase crash risk at an intersection. Nationally, intersections account for about one-quarter of traffic fatalities and half of all traffic injuries, according to the Federal Highway Administration.
How can I drive more safely through busy intersections?
Slow down as you approach, maintain a safe following distance, scan for pedestrians and cross traffic, avoid distractions and confirm the intersection is clear before proceeding when the light changes.
Does bad weather increase intersection crash risk?
Yes. Rain, fog, snow and ice can reduce visibility and traction, making it harder to stop or react safely at intersections.
Who should I contact if I believe an intersection has a safety problem?
For state-maintained roads, you can submit a service request to MDOT SHA online or call 410-545-0300. Urgent issues such as a malfunctioning traffic signal can be reported to the Statewide Operations Center at 1-800-543-2515. Roads maintained by a county or city, such as Baltimore City streets, should be reported to that local government.
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