San Bernardino’s Most Dangerous Intersections: Creating Safer Roads and Protecting Your Rights After a Car Accident
San Bernardino County really has some of the most hazardous and even notoriously dangerous roads and intersections in all of California. With such heavy traffic from computers, complicated roadways, windy mountain wrapping roads, and high-speed freeways––oh and winds, don’t forget the winds, accidents occur daily. Data from California’s Highway Patrol (CHP) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show the many collisions that happen in our region occurring at specific intersections and highways, putting you, the drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk.
After a California car accident, your life suddenly goes from routine to chaos from coping with injuries, damage, insurance companies, and legal claims. It can all make you want to pull your hair out.
Where Do Most Accidents Happen in San Bernardino?
Several intersections and freeways in San Bernardino County have a bad reputation due to their high number of collisions. Many factors, not just one, fan the flames of roadway disaster, including congestion, bad visibility, inadequate signage, and reckless driving behaviors like speeding and driving distracted.
Interstate 15 (I-15)––California’s Deadliest Stretch of Pavement
Coming in on top is Interstate 15, one of the most dangerous roads in not only California but in the United States. The road connects southern Cali to Las Vegas and sees seriously heavy traffic year-round. The section that lies between Exit 138 and Exit 129 near Hesperia has been pinpointed as one of the deadliest spans of road in the entire state. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), this area has recorded sadly dozens of fatalities over recent years because of things like speeding, reckless drivers, thoughtless and sudden lane changing, and impaired drivers.
Holiday travel also sees a spike in these risks on I-15, particularly at Thanksgiving, when San Bernardino County has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the US.
State Route 138 (SR-38) AKA “Blood Alley”
State Route 138, also called Pearblossom Highway, is infamous for sharp turns, steep inclines painted with tire marks, and a lack of median barriers in certain sections, which has proved fatal. The road winds through the San Bernardino Mountains, making particularly treacherous geographical conditions for drivers who are unfamiliar with the twists and the narrowness of this road. Per Caltrans accident reports many fatal crashes occur when drivers misjudge turns or attempt to overtake more cautious and slower vehicles on the two-lane highway.
Interstate 215 (I-215) The High Speed Danger Zone
I-215 zips north-south through San Bernardino, connecting commuters to Riverside and LA. The stretch from Exit 44B to Exit 39 has a steep rate of collisions, especially involving commercial trucks. Many accidents in this area result from sudden lane switching, high speeds, and overwhelming congestion during rush hour.
Waterman Avenue and Baseline Street––Intersection Hotspot
Crossing Waterman Ave and Baseline Street, there is a shockingly high number of crashes due to the high traffic volume and the complex lane arrangements on this road. Many of the accidents involve rear-end impacts, T-bone accidents, and pedestrian injuries. Poor visibility and traffic make this a particularly risky locale.
Orange Show Road with E Street; Event Traffic Risks
Located by the San Bernardino Convention Center, the intersection of Orange Show Road and E Street experiences increased accident rates, and you guessed it, during events. Drivers unacquainted with the area often make frequent stops or wrong turns, which has resulted in accidents.
Cajon Pass and Extreme Weather Combined with Trucking
Part of I-15 includes Cajon Pass, which is a pivotal roadway for daily commuters and big commercial vehicles. High winds can cause these commercial trucks to sway into the next lane or off the road. Fog and steep inclines also make this section of road especially treacherous. Large trucks navigating the pass often contribute to multi-car crashes. CHP reports indicate that weather-related wrecks are a leading factor in fatalities in this area.
Steps to Take After You’ve Been in a San Bernardino Car Crash
After an accident, taking proper measures can protect your legal rights and help you build a strong case for possible claims for compensation.
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Call 911 and Get Seen by Medics Right Away
Safety should always come first. Period. If anyone is injured, even if they aren’t sure, call emergency services. Seeking appropriate medical care ensures all injuries and potential injuries are documented. Issues can and often do develop in the days and weeks after an accident, so even those who think they are fine should be seen by a physician.
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Report The Accident to Law Enforcement
San Bernardino County requires that all accidents involving injuries or substantial property damage be reported to the California Highway Patrol or local police. A police report will serve as crucial evidence when working with insurance companies and potential legal claims.
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Gather The Evidence
If you are able, you should document the accident scene with photos and videos. Look for the following and make sure to document it:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs
- Any visible injuries
- Skid marks
- Debris on the road
- Weather conditions
Exchanging your info with other drivers as well as anyone who might have witnessed the accident unfold can add to the strength of your case.
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Never Admit To Fault
Ignore the desire to say everything is okay or I am so sorry this happened to the other parties. The most well-intended “it’s okay” or “I am sorry this happened” can be twisted around and used against you later when dealing with the insurance representatives. Stick to the facts and facts alone. Avoid any speculating or speculating remarks about the cause of the accident. Leave examining, deciphering, and conclusions to the experts, like your attorney.
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Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Car accidents can have you seeing crazy high medical bills quickly pile up, along with lost paychecks and long-term injuries. Speaking with a skilled attorney in San Bernardino can alter your rights and help maximize your compensation. As a car accident victim, you need to take swift, immediate action to protect your rights and interests. Especially when dealing with negligence and negligent drivers, you can help hold them accountable and, in turn, be part of the journey to making our roads safer.
Contact an experienced Southern California personal injury attorney for a free and confidential consultation.
Scot Thomas Moga, a dedicated attorney in San Bernardino & Riverside Counties who represents clients in the many types of personal injury, workers’ compensation and estate planning cases.
