Intersection safety is a serious concern in New Orleans, as car accidents regularly occur at these locations. However, one particular intersection has become a focal point for serious traffic hazards and complaints.
Safety measures proposed for high-risk Algiers intersection
Councilman Freddie King is taking action to address a dangerous intersection in Algiers known for scattered debris, excessive speeding, and growing calls for action from neighbors. According to King, the intersection of Wall Street and General De Gaulle has faced numerous complaints.
"It's not just small fender benders; these cars are being t-boned, the cars are being totaled, airbags are being deployed," King said in a statement. "People are being physically injured, cars are being totaled, it's important to the constituents of this community, so it's important to me."
King is proposing several solutions to improve the intersection's safety. One solution is to cut off the intersection and require drivers to go to the next intersection to make a U-turn rather than drive across four lanes of traffic. King expressed his hope to continue discussions between city and state officials to resolve the problematic intersection.
"We have been working with DOTD and DPW to try to come up with a solution. You know things move slow, there's always a study that needs to be done and some consulting, but to me, the study is 19 accidents in 15 weeks," King remarked.
What are common causes of New Orleans intersection accidents?
Intersection accidents are a common occurrence on the roads and can often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some of the most common causes of intersection accidents include:
- Running red lights: Drivers who run red lights or stop signs put themselves and others at great risk. This reckless behavior often leads to high-speed collisions, including T-bone accidents.
- Failure to yield: Many intersection accidents occur because drivers fail to yield the right-of-way. This is especially common with left-turn accidents, where a driver turns without properly assessing oncoming traffic.
- Distracted driving: Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio can cause drivers to miss important traffic signals or fail to notice other vehicles.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the time drivers have to react to changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of collisions.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction times and leads to a higher likelihood of intersection accidents.
- Inadequate signaling: Failing to use turn signals or using them incorrectly can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents.
- Obstructed views: Obstacles such as large vehicles, trees, or buildings can block a driver’s view of the intersection. This makes it difficult to see oncoming traffic or pedestrians.
- Aggressive driving: Behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and road rage can lead to dangerous situations at intersections.
Let an experienced lawyer fight for you after a New Orleans intersection accident
Getting into an intersection crash can be frightening and result in injuries that turn your whole life upside down. Recovering compensation without the help of a car accident attorney can feel like an impossible task. Dealing with the insurance company can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know your rights. They only care about protecting their profits than offering you a settlement that covers all your expenses. They may even argue the crash was your fault and deny your claim altogether.
At The Law Offices of John S. Williams, LLC, we believe you shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket for someone else’s negligence. If you were injured in a crash, we know what to do. Since 2012, John S. Williams has served as an aggressive advocate for victims of negligence, helping them recover the compensation they need and deserve. Whether at the negotiating table or in court before a judge and jury, John will fight to maximize your claim. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our office is located in New Orleans, and we serve injury victims throughout Louisiana.