We know driving in Akron can be tricky—interstates back up, construction is constant, and downtown is busy with pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers face a higher risk of car accidents at intersections, among the most common and dangerous causes of traffic collisions.
This guide explains why intersections are risky, which Akron junctions see the most crashes, what to do after a wreck, and how Gervelis Law can help if you’re injured.
Why Are Intersections So Dangerous?
Intersections concentrate conflict points and can be stressful for drivers in busy areas, especially without traffic signals. Coming to an intersection can mean crosswalks and pedestrians, stops for public transit lines, vehicles turning onto the street, cross traffic, limited visibility, and some drivers just not paying attention.
Common causes for accidents in intersections include:
- Distracted driving
- Stop sign or red light running
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Following too closely
What Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Akron?
When you’re driving in Akron, you need to stay alert. You should always keep a reasonable distance, leaving plenty of room to stop, keep your phone down, and manage your speed.
A 2020-2022 Akron Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (AMATS) report identified the most dangerous intersections based on the total number of crashes and the percentage of fatal and injury crashes. The study included more than 47,000 crashes involving vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians in the greater Akron area of Portage and Summit counties, as well as northeastern Wayne County.
The study identified 233 intersections in greater Akron, with at least 30% of crashes being fatal or injury-related. Among the most dangerous intersections in Akron are:
- North Howard Street & Glenwood Avenue: 23 crashes with 57% involving a fatal or serious injury. Glenwood faces Howard’s four lanes, without oncoming traffic stopping.
- North Howard Street & North Street: 43 accidents.
- South Broadway Street & Rosa Parks Drive: 24 accidents, with half involving a fatal or serious injury, and Broadway is one-way.
- South Broadway Street & East Exchange Street: 44 accidents, as Exchange turns onto Broadway, which is one-way.
- South High Street & Bartges Street: There have been 25 accidents, 48% of which have involved a fatal or serious injury.
- South Main Street & Wilbeth Road: 41 accidents, with South Main Street having four-lane traffic.
What to Do If You’ve Been in an Intersection Accident
Addressing your safety and health comes first after a car accident. Other actions help preserve evidence for an insurance claim or lawsuit. If you’re involved in a car accident in Akron, it’s important to know what to do next:
- First, move you and your vehicle to a safe location, preferably off the street, and then call 911 and report the accident.
- Exchange information with others involved in the accident—including all drivers’ and witnesses’ names, phone numbers, driver’s licenses, and insurance details.
- Document the scene thoroughly. Take photos or videos of the vehicles, road conditions, weather, skid marks, license plates, and any visible injuries.
- Do not admit fault or apologize for the accident to anyone.
- Seek prompt medical care—even if you feel okay—and follow your doctor’s recommendations; some injuries are delayed.
- Keep all records. Save your medical documents and other crash- and injury-related information, as well as a journal documenting your damages, particularly pain and emotional trauma.
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Even if you receive a ticket after an accident at an intersection, it doesn’t mean you are legally guilty of the accident or that you cannot get compensation. Having a ticket is just one of many factors considered. Determining fault can be complex, often requiring expert testimony to establish the percentage of fault, but legal help can make this process easier.
How Gervelis Law Firm Can Help
Getting into a car accident at an intersection can lead to serious injuries, high medical bills, and insurance issues. Gervelis Law Firm attorneys understand Ohio traffic laws, how to prove fault, and how to fight for full compensation.
Whether you’re hit trying to turn on a one-way or by a distracted driver, we’re here to help. We’ll meet you at home, the hospital, or wherever is most convenient and keep you informed every step of the way—that’s the Gervelis Guarantee.
Our award-winning attorneys have decades of experience handling claims and always prioritize clients’ needs. Our Rapid Investigation Team is on-site within 24 hours to preserve evidence and secure video before it’s overwritten. Don’t face it alone, and let us handle insurance and legal paperwork so you can focus on healing.
Contact Gervelis Law Firm today at (866) 792-2728 for a free consultation.