Though Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is well-known for its rich history and vibrant culture, it also has dangerous roads and intersections. Navigating safely through the city requires an understanding of why these areas are so dangerous.
A deep understanding of the most dangerous roads is important to avoid accidents. Accident risks are increased due to high traffic volumes, bad road designs, and the actions of distracted or impatient drivers.
Why These Accident Prone Zones Are So Dangerous?
The following are the reasons why these accident prone zones are so dangerous:
- Reckless or inattentive driver behavior
- Poor road design
- Traffic congestion
The Most Accident Prone Zones Roads in Baton Rouge
Many of Baton Rouge’s streets stand out as especially dangerous, with individual traits that add to their peril.
1. Nicholson Drive
With 400 incidents recorded annually, Nicholson Drive sees an amazing number of accidents. Drivers have to deal with the treacherous condition caused by the combination of heavy traffic, fast speed, and frequent lane changes. Nicholson’s Drive traffic safety is greatly influenced by the road’s length. It’s connection to important intersections further influences the road’s safety.
2. O’Neal Lane
Running from Harrell’s Ferry Road to I-12, O’Neal Lane is infamous for its high accident count—340 accidents a year. The situation gets worse with interstate traffic, which causes regular collisions, particularly in peak hours when drivers are usually rushing.
3. Staring Lane
Another major safety concern road is Staring Lane with 340 annual accidents. Its close proximity to popular restaurants and homes increases the risk of accidents since drivers might be distracted or ignorant of the abrupt traffic changes.
4. Highland Road
With an average of 245 accidents yearly, Highland Road which runs from Perkins Road to Airline Highway is another accident hotspot. Particularly at intersections, the design of the road and the high-speed limits contribute to its dangerous nature.
5. Burbank Drive
Though it looks rural, Burbank Drive averages 238 accidents annually. The road has seen major improvement that has resulted in increased traffic and more collisions.
The Most Accident Prone Zones Intersections in Baton Rouge
Like most places, intersections are often the scene of accidents, and Baton Rouge is not an exception. Below are some especially infamous intersections with high accident rates.
1. Airline Highway and Florida Boulevard
Airline Highway and Florida Boulevard is among Baton Rouge’s busiest and most dangerous intersections. High traffic volumes and impatient drivers combined cause regular collisions. Drivers navigating this intersection have to be alert since even a brief lapse in concentration could cause a collision.
2. Bluebonnet Boulevard and Perkins Road
Pedestrians are especially at risk at this intersection, which has seen several foot-based accidents. This crossing is dangerous given the lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and the high speed of vehicles.
3. Florida Boulevard and Sherwood Forest Boulevard
Left-turn accidents at this intersection are well known. There is great chance of collision given several lanes of traffic and drivers trying to turn across them. Making turns here requires great caution from drivers since the margin for error is small.
4. Florida Boulevard and College Drive
Like other points of intersection on Florida Boulevard, Florida Boulevard and College Drive see a lot of accidents resulting from heavy traffic and hurried drivers. Following traffic rules exactly and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles will help lower the accident risk at this intersection.
5. Perkins Road and Essen Lane
Cyclists face major risks at this intersection, where multiple bike accidents have been reported. For those riding two wheels, the lack of specific bike lanes and the high speed of vehicles make this area dangerous. To be safe, cyclists are advised to wear reflective gear and keep within assigned lanes.
