Every intersection is an opportunity for a crash. Drivers are often so eager to reach their destinations that they don’t focus enough on safety. Intersections force vehicles to approach one another from opposing directions with limited space.
Many of the worst crashes every year occur at intersections, including bicycle collisions. When looking at reports of bicycle collisions and near-misses, some intersections around Los Angeles stand out as far more dangerous than others.
Where are cyclists at particularly elevated risk?
Many issues affect intersection safety
Some of the most famous intersections in Los Angeles are on the list of the most dangerous places to ride bikes. Where Hollywood Boulevard intersects with Highland Avenue is one of the busiest intersections in the area, with a constant stream of tourists and buses passing through.
Sunset Boulevard’s intersection with Vine Street is also notorious for rush hour traffic and distracted drivers. The lack of dedicated bike lanes only worsens the issue. The intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Sepulveda Boulevard features confusing lane design and heavy traffic, which is a potentially deadly combination.
The intersection of Figueroa Street and Exposition Boulevard sees a high level of students on foot and heavy traffic in general. Drivers often fail to monitor for and yield to cyclists, and pedestrians may also fail to watch for bicycles. Where Figueroa Street intersects with W. 5th Street is also notorious as one of the most dangerous intersections in the area in general.
Other high-risk intersections include:
- Wilshire Boulevard & Westwood Boulevard
- Wall Street and E 4th Street
- Olive Street and W 7th Street
- Los Angeles Street and W 7th Street
- Van Nuys Boulevard and Oxnard Street
- S. Broadway and W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Cyclists are always at risk when approaching intersections, but these busy locations are especially dangerous. Visibility issues, a lack of bicycle lanes and heavy traffic can all contribute to overall risk levels.
Even when cyclists avoid dangerous roads, buy the best gear possible and consistently follow the law, they may be at risk due to the conduct of others in traffic. Holding drivers accountable for unsafe behavior can help injured cyclists cover medical expenses, lost wages and other financial consequences of bicycle-car collisions.
