While not as aggressive as Boston drivers or angry as Los Angeles drivers, San Diego drivers can get a little distracted. We usually see one fender bender, spin out or car-be-que on our way to work every morning.
You can reduce your chances of having one of these misfortunes when you up your vigilance on San Diego’s most dangerous roads and intersections.
Most Dangerous Places to Get in a Car Accident in San Diego
1. Freeway 67
This highway is one of the most treacherous highways in all of San Diego. The road stretches 25 miles and consists of many twists and turns. The roadway has seen over 50 deaths caused by some of the most disastrous collisions in the past 20 years. If you are fortunate enough to walk away from a car accident on Freeway 67, you will need to find the best collision repair in North County San Diego to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive once again.
2. El Cajon Boulevard
Dimly lit El Cajon Boulevard seems to inspire speed in drivers. With three lanes going each direction, people just start to think it’s a freeway. Instead, many lights and pedestrians impede the journey.
3. Interstate 5
Interstate 5 connecting San Diego to Los Angeles can have up to six lanes going each way. No matter the time of day, traffic can back up in an instant, leading to pile-ups and fender benders. Accidents occur several times a day on this road. Those finding themselves in an accident tend to wait a while for emergency help, due not only to the traffic but the number of accidents occurring at any one time. When driving on the Interstate 5, always avoid distractions and watch the road far ahead of you for brake lights.
4. University and Marlborough Avenue
This intersection has seen too many pedestrian injuries and deaths. Many times, cars will collide with each other while trying to avoid a pedestrian. Either way, this intersection is among San Diego’s 15 worst in San Diego. Frequently, legislation comes up to attempt to make this intersection less dangerous.
5. Interstate 15
Interstate 15 in San Diego’s “inland corridor” is known for drunk driving accidents and the bumper to bumper traffic that occurs when San Diegans commute from downtown to bedroom communities. Frequent accidents caused by tired drivers coming home after a long day complicate congestion. Commuters can try to avoid the most trafficked times by adjusting work schedules.
6. Market Street and 6th Avenue
This intersection is among the worst lit intersections in San Diego. Pedestrians and drivers alike strain to see the lines marking the crosswalks. The lights are also short, giving pedestrians little time to get from side to side. Light changes do not seem to coordinate with crosswalk signals, leaving many people are stuck in the middle of the intersection as green signals cars to go. If possible, find another route and avoid this intersection altogether.
7. Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue flows through the Gaslamp District of San Diego. The district is beautiful, but the street is not so great. Not only is it one way, but it is also very narrow, making it difficult to navigate. During the weekend and at night, the area is swarming with people enjoying the many restaurants and bars. That means people who have been drinking can jaywalk and wander in front of cars, causing accidents. Just remember to drive slowly through this area and most of the Gaslamp District where one-way streets are the norm.
What Do I Do If I Am in an Accident on One of These Roadways?
It is terrifying when you get into an auto accident on any roadway. You will often question why you were not more careful. You may ask why you didn’t avoid the roadway and find another route to drive.
The truth is, accidents happen. The frequency of accidents keeps insurance companies thriving. Once the accident occurs, don’t second guess your choices. Move forward.
First, make sure you and your passengers are safe. If you can move from your car, call 911 to get help immediately. Do not move anyone who appears to be injured.
Once you have made sure you and your passengers are safe, you may want to consider an exam at an emergency room to ensure you do not have a concussion, whiplash or any other issues.
With your health handled, it’s time to take steps to get your car back to normal. These tips will help.
- Find an auto shop in San Diego you can trust. Make sure the shop is well rated. They must be certified. Only an accredited repair shop can advise you appropriately. Some of the reputable certifications include AAA, NAPA Autocare, ASE (Automotive Service Award), Better Business Bureau, PPG Certification, and more.
- Your insurance will advise you on whether your car is totaled or repairable.
- You can choose whose insurance to use. If you are not at fault in the accident, it’s best to use the other person’s insurance. Talk to your agent to determine which is your best option for the repairs you need.
- You are within your rights to deny the offer from the insurance company. If you think the repairs are more costly than the offer, or you believe the offer is too low, you can refuse to accept it. Work with your insurance company to negotiate the offer. At some point, this contention may lead to litigation.
- You have the right to decline the offer and keep the money. If you feel the vehicle is not worth fixing, you can refuse to fix it and take a cash payout. The key is to consult an attorney and your insurance company to determine the best option for you.
Contact Us Today for Your Auto Repair in San Diego Needs
If you are in an auto accident in San Diego, you need auto repair you can trust. The auto repair experts at San Diego Auto Body and Paint are happy to help. Contact us today at 760-621-7128 for your free estimate. If you reach out to us online, one of our service experts will get back to you quickly.
