Sherman, Texas, is a growing city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones; therefore, traffic congestion is a common problem. With more vehicles on the road, certain intersections have become hotspots for accidents, resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. Knowing where these risky junctions are and why they pose a risk might help drivers take extra care to stay safe.
In this blog, we’ll look at the most dangerous junctions in Sherman, Texas, explain the variables that contribute to high accident rates, and offer safety advice for traversing these regions. We will also go over what to do if you are in a collision and how Tate Accident Law can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Why Do Some Intersections Have More Accidents?
Certain intersections are more prone to accidents for several reasons, including:
Poor Visibility
Trees, buildings, and signage can block a driver’s view of oncoming vehicles. Poor street lighting can also cause problems at night, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians or other vehicles.
Confusing or Poorly Designed Layouts
Intersections with strange angles, short merge lanes, or imprecise signs can cause uncertainty, resulting in unexpected stops, incorrect turns, and crashes.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Many accidents occur when drivers exceed the speed limit, run red lights, or make illegal turns. High speeds diminish reaction time and exacerbate the severity of crashes.
Distracted Driving
Using a telephone, adjusting the radio, or indulging in other distractions while driving can cause delayed reactions , resulting in preventable accidents.
Inadequate Traffic Control
Inadequate signage, malfunctioning traffic signals, and imprecise lane lines can all contribute to intersection-related crashes. Without clear guidelines, drivers may misinterpret right-of-way restrictions, resulting in deadly situations.
The Most Hazardous Intersections in Sherman, TX
Sherman, TX, is home to some intersections that have gained notoriety for their high accident rates. These crossings are frequently afflicted by a combination of problems, including high traffic flow, poor visibility, complex design, and driver behavior. Here’s an in-depth look at some of Sherman’s most dangerous junctions.
1. US-75 and FM 1417
- Why It Is Dangerous: Because of its proximity to major roads and commercial areas, this intersection receives a lot of traffic. Speeding is a common problem, as vehicles frequently fail to alter their speed when merging or exiting a roadway.
- Common Accidents: Rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and T-bone accidents are frequent here, especially during rush hours.
- Safety Tip: Slow down before approaching this intersection and use caution when changing lanes.
2. Loy Lake Road and Texoma Parkway
- Why It Is Dangerous: This junction is a high-risk accident location due to poor visibility and confused turning lanes. Drivers frequently underestimate the timing of turns or fail to surrender the right of way.
- Common Accidents: Side-impact collisions and pedestrian accidents are common, particularly during rush hour.
- Safety Tip: Before turning, double-check for incoming vehicles and pedestrians.
3. Travis Street and Houston Street
- Why It Is Dangerous: Considering it is in the heart of downtown, this intersection is prone to traffic jams and distracted driving. Businesses and crosswalks are close together, increasing the danger of pedestrian accidents.
- Common Accidents: pedestrian accidents, and rear-end crashes occur frequently.
- Safety Tip: Maintain focus, prevent distractions, and yield to pedestrians at this intersection.
4. FM 691 and FM 1417
- Why It Is Dangerous: This intersection is notorious for its high-speed traffic and poor visibility, particularly during bad weather. The lack of sufficient signs and lighting exacerbates the dangers.
- Common Accidents: High-speed collisions and rollover accidents are common here.
- Safety Tip: Slow down and use extra caution when driving through this intersection, particularly at night or during bad weather.
5. Texoma Parkway and Washington Street
- Why It Is Dangerous: This junction has both residential and commercial traffic, which leads to unpredictable driver behavior. The huge amount of vehicles turning left or right causes confusion and raises the likelihood of an accident.
- Common Accidents: Sideswipes and left-turn crashes occur frequently.
- Safety Tip: Be patient and wait for clear opportunities to turn, especially during peak hours.
By identifying these hazardous intersections and taking proactive steps to stay safe, you can reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.
How to Stay Safe at Sherman’s Dangerous Intersections
While you cannot control other drivers, you can take precautions to reduce your chances of being involved in an accident at high-risk intersections. Here’s how:
- Stay Alert: Keep your focus on the road and avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting in-car entertainment.
- Plan Ahead: Use GPS or maps to familiarize yourself with the layout of these intersections before driving through them.
- Obey Traffic Signals: Always obey traffic lights, stop signs, and right-of-way instructions.
- Approach with Caution: Slow down when approaching known hazardous intersections, especially if visibility is limited.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Many accidents occur because drivers fail to yield to non-motorists at intersections.
- Be Mindful of Speed Limits: Speeding impairs your ability to respond to sudden stops or unexpected maneuvers by other drivers.
- Use Your Turn Signals: Clearly indicating your intentions can prevent miscommunication and collisions.
- Check for Blind Spots: Always double-check before turning or changing lanes.
Following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of being involved in a car accident in some of Sherman’s most dangerous intersections.
What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident at a Dangerous Intersection
Accidents can still occur, even when measures are taken. If you are involved in a collision at a hazardous intersection in Sherman, follow these steps:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and passengers for any injuries and call 911 if medical attention is needed.
- Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid a second accident.
- Call the Police: Reporting the accident is crucial and making an official record, which is beneficial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Exchange Information: If you are able, gather information from other drivers, such as their names, contact information, insurance information, and car descriptions.
- Document the Scene: If you are able, take photos of the accident, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Seek Medical Attention: Injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock and adrenaline. Get checked by a medical professional.
- Contact Tate Accident Law: An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process, obtain and preserve evidence, secure good medical care and obtain compensation for your damages.
Taking the right decisions after an accident can protect your well-being and your legal rights.
How Tate Accident Law Can Help After a Sherman Car Accident
If you’ve been injured in a car accident at one of Sherman’s hazardous intersections, Tate Accident Law is here to help. Here’s how we can assist:
- Free Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We analyze your accident details and determine the best legal course of action.
- Insurance Negotiation: We deal with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.
- Proving Liability: Our legal team gathers evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction, to establish fault.
- Maximizing Compensation: We fight for the maximum settlement possible, covering both economic and non-economic damages.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Tate Accident Law is dedicated to providing accident victims in Sherman with the legal assistance they require. If you or a loved one has been wounded in a car accident, do not delay—contact us today for a free consultation.
