What are the Most Dangerous Intersections in San Francisco?

San Francisco is a diverse, lively city full of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. But, this beautiful city can also be dangerous for people on the road. In fact, San Francisco had more traffic accidents with deaths or injuries than any other large city in California in 2009. How can you stay safe on the streets of San Francisco? Besides paying attention to the road and obeying all traffic signs, drivers can also avoid these dangerous intersections:

12th Street, Mission Street, Otis Street, and South Van Ness Avenue

Between 2005 and 2012, there were nearly 100 traffic accidents at this intersection. Most of the traffic accidents involved a car hitting another car, but there were also 12 instances of a car colliding with a pedestrian, and 6 accidents involving a bicyclist. Why is this intersection so dangerous? It could be because of its size. There are 17 lanes of traffic and 7 crosswalks, which makes it difficult for cars, pedestrians, and bicyclists to safely navigate through this area.

Market Street, Octavia Boulevard and Highway 101

Vehicles crossing through this intersection are typically making their way onto the on ramp for Highway 101. There were 42 car accidents at this intersection between 2005 and 2012, and many of them led to severe injuries and property damage. Much of the danger at this intersection could possibly be eliminated if vehicles were to follow the traffic signs. It’s believed that many accidents occur when cars make illegal right turns to jump on the highway. In the process of turning right, they cut through a bike lane and sidewalk, which puts bicyclists and pedestrians at risk of being hit.

Castro Street and Market Street

This intersection is known to be quite dangerous, mainly because of the many visual distractions. Tourists tend to congregate in this area, so drivers have to use extra caution when approaching this intersection. If you are on foot or riding a bike, make sure to stay focused on the road ahead instead of getting distracted by your surroundings.

Potrero Avenue and 16th Street

Based on data from 2012 and 2013, this intersection may be particularly dangerous for pedestrians. One pedestrian was killed here in 2013, and ten others were struck by cars in 2012 and 2013. This area tends to get fairly busy, so motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians need to keep an eye out to stay safe while crossing this intersection.

Accidents can happen anywhere in San Francisco–not just at these intersections. If you have been injured in an accident, contact Rush Injury Law today. Attorney James Rush can help you hold the at-fault parties accountable for their negligence. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation by calling 415-897-4801 or filling out the online form on our website, www.rushinjurylaw.com .