Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

Dangerous Streets, Roads, and Intersections in Fresno

Fresno is home to some of the most hazardous intersections and roadways in California. The combination of heavy traffic, speeding, and distracted driving creates dangerous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Some of the most accident-prone areas include:

• Highway 99

• Shaw Avenue

• Blackstone Avenue

• Herndon Avenue

• Ventura Avenue and Chestnut Avenue

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fresno

Distracted Driving — Drivers distracted by phones, eating, or other activities fail to react promptly to changing road conditions, leading to accidents. It is the leading cause of preventable motor collisions in the United States.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs — Areas near Fresno’s nightlife spots, such as the Tower District, are prone to drunk driving accidents, particularly late at night or on weekends.

Speeding — High-speed crashes are common on open stretches of roads like Highway 41 and Highway 180, often leading to severe injuries.

Unsafe Lane Changes — Busy roads like Blackstone Avenue or Clovis Avenue see frequent accidents caused by drivers changing lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots.

Failure to Yield at Intersections — Intersections such as Cedar and Shields or Herndon and Willow are particularly dangerous due to drivers failing to yield the right of way.

Weather — Rain, snow, fog, and ice create slippery roads and reduce visibility, making it harder to control vehicles. Drivers often underestimate the need to adjust speed and braking distances in adverse weather. 

Running Red Traffic Signals — Ignoring red lights leads to dangerous intersection collisions, often at high speeds. Such accidents are highly preventable with compliance with traffic laws and the increased use of automated traffic cameras. Red-light running often correlates with impatience or distraction.

Night Driving — Reduced visibility and increased driver fatigue make nighttime driving riskier. Drivers may fail to notice hazards in time or misjudge distances. Adequate lighting, reduced speeds, and avoiding nighttime trips when tired can help minimize risks.

Design Defects (Vehicle Recalls) — Faulty vehicle parts, such as brakes or airbags, can lead to sudden, uncontrollable vehicle accidents. Regular maintenance and staying informed about vehicle recalls can prevent accidents caused by defects. Manufacturers are legally obligated to address known design flaws.

Tailgating — Following too closely reduces reaction time if the lead vehicle brakes suddenly. Tailgating often results in rear-end collisions, which can cause significant injuries even at low speeds. 

Wrong-Way Driving/Improper Turns — Driving the wrong way or making illegal turns can cause catastrophic head-on or side-impact crashes. These actions often stem from confusion, distraction, or impairment. 

Animal Crossings — Sudden animal crossings, particularly in rural areas, can lead to dangerous swerves or collisions. Many accidents occur at night when animals are harder to spot. 

Construction Sites — Road construction areas often have narrow lanes, detours, and reduced visibility, increasing accident risks. Confusion or impatience in these zones often leads to collisions.