Many different issues can lead to motor vehicle collisions. Most of the time, driver behaviors are the main underlying factor. People make poor choices, such as texting while driving or exceeding the speed limit.
Occasionally, road design and maintenance can contribute to crash risk by exacerbating other risk factors. There are some streets and intersections that are simply more dangerous than others. Drivers in the Fairfax area may need to know where their crash risk is higher. That way, they can bypass dangerous roads and intersections. If they do have to drive on streets known to be somewhat risky, they can put more of an emphasis on safety.
Where is crash risk the highest in the Fairfax area?
Some roads see more crashes and near misses
When evaluating crash risk, looking at reported incidents is a good way to determine what locations are the most dangerous. Certain streets and intersections see more crashes and near misses than many others.
Beulah Street is notorious for drivers who fail to yield or speed causing crashes. There were 17 reports of near misses on this road where drivers almost caused crashes or struck pedestrians. Fairfax County Parkway took a close second place with 16 reported near misses, while Blake Lane took third place on the list with 14 reported incidents.
Reston Parkway saw multiple near misses between Baron Cameron and the Toll Road and at its intersection with New Dominion. Other locations with reported incidents include:
- Bluemont Way
- the intersection of West Ox Road and Centreville Road
- Glade Drive
- Gallows Road
- the Annandale & Bailey’s crossroads area
- Columbia Pike
- Little River Turnpike
- Leesburg Pike
- Backlick Road
Factors including a lack of sidewalks, high traffic speeds and traffic density all played a role in risk levels. Drivers who don’t pay attention, fail to yield the right of way or speed may have more risk of a wreck than others.
Motorists who know where their chances of a crash are highest can make better plans about where they travel and smarter choices while on the road. Taking steps to limit motor vehicle collision risk can help drivers avoid injuries and costly property damage.