Atlanta is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and economic opportunities. Unfortunately, it’s also notorious for its hectic traffic and dangerous intersections. If you live or drive in Atlanta, chances are you’ve experienced or witnessed a close call on the road.
At Buddoo and Associates, we are committed to helping accident victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. To better protect yourself and your loved ones, it’s essential to know about the most dangerous intersections in Atlanta.
If you are in a car crash at one of these dangerous intersections, our Atlanta car accident lawyers can help. Contact us today for a free case review!
Why Are Atlanta’s Intersections So Dangerous?
Before diving into specific locations, let’s examine some of the common factors that make Atlanta intersections high-risk:
- Heavy traffic volumes: As one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S., Atlanta sees millions of commuters daily, leading to congested roadways.
- Complex layouts: Multiple lanes, poorly timed signals, and merging highways create confusion.
- Aggressive driving behaviors: Speeding, running red lights, and distracted driving are prevalent.
- Pedestrian and cyclist activity: With more people walking and biking, intersections become more hazardous for everyone.
- Inadequate infrastructure: Some roads haven’t been updated to handle modern traffic demands.
Understanding these factors helps explain why the following intersections are especially dangerous.
The 8 Most Dangerous Intersections in Atlanta
The following 8 dangerous intersections in Atlanta share common traits that make them more prone to car accidents:
- Poor visibility and complicated traffic patterns.
- A mix of local and non-local drivers, leading to unexpected stops and turns.
- Inadequate traffic enforcement, allowing dangerous behaviors to go unchecked.
- Lack of pedestrian infrastructure despite heavy foot traffic.
Memorial Drive and North Hairston Road
Located in Stone Mountain on the east side of Atlanta, the intersection of Memorial Drive and North Hairston Road is one of the deadliest intersections in Georgia. It’s a busy commercial area where thousands of cars pass every day.
Key issues:
- High traffic volume combined with short signal cycles.
- Frequent pedestrian crossings without adequate protection.
- Aggressive turns and drivers running yellow/red lights.
If you are involved in an accident here, immediate medical attention and contacting a skilled attorney should be your top priorities.
Moreland Avenue and Interstate 20
Moreland Avenue (US 23) and I-20 is another hot spot for accidents. This intersection connects a major interstate with a heavily trafficked urban road.
Hazards include:
- High-speed merges and exits that confuse drivers.
- Inadequate signage leading to sudden lane changes.
- Heavy pedestrian traffic, especially during rush hours.
The combination of highway traffic and local drivers creates a volatile environment that often results in rear-end collisions and T-bone crashes.
Peachtree Street and Lenox Road
In the heart of Buckhead, one of Atlanta’s busiest business and shopping districts, the Peachtree Street and Lenox Road intersection is infamous for fender benders, serious collisions, and pedestrian accidents.
Common dangers:
- Tourists unfamiliar with local roads.
- Impatient drivers during rush hours.
- Complicated lane shifts to accommodate turning traffic.
With so many people trying to access Lenox Square Mall and nearby offices, accidents here are frequent and often severe.
Cobb Parkway and Akers Mill Road/Cumberland Boulevard
Right near Cumberland Mall and the Battery Atlanta (home of Truist Park), the intersection of Cobb Parkway (US 41) and Akers Mill/Cumberland Boulevard sees relentless traffic, especially during events like Braves games.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Multiple multi-lane roads.
- Heavy pedestrian flow during events.
- Confusing signage and poorly timed traffic signals.
During busy periods, minor accidents can create gridlock and potential multi-car pileups.
Ponce de Leon Avenue and Moreland Avenue
Located near Little Five Points, this intersection is notorious for its mix of drivers, bikers, and pedestrians. Both roads are major arteries filled with people trying to access nearby shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
Risk factors:
- High pedestrian volume, especially at night.
- Speeding and aggressive turns.
- Inadequate crosswalk visibility.
Distracted drivers and poorly marked lanes make Ponce and Moreland one of the most hazardous places to drive in Atlanta.
Northside Drive and 14th Street
The Northside Drive and 14th Street intersection is close to Georgia Tech, Atlantic Station, and other major destinations.
Key dangers:
- Multiple lanes and high-speed traffic.
- Students and residents crossing on foot or by bike.
- Frequent delivery trucks and buses, adding to congestion.
This is a prime spot for T-bone and pedestrian-related crashes.
Camp Creek Parkway and I-285
On the southwest side of the city near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Camp Creek Parkway and I-285 is one of the busiest and most dangerous intersections in the metro area.
Common issues:
- Airport travelers unfamiliar with the area.
- High-speed on- and off-ramp merges
- Congested retail areas.
Crashes here often involve serious injuries due to the speed of vehicles and tractor-trailer presence.
Piedmont Road and Sidney Marcus Boulevard
Near the Lindbergh neighborhood, this intersection connects drivers to GA-400 and is a key connector between Buckhead and Midtown.
Hazards include:
- High-speed turns and merges.
- Aggressive lane changes due to merging traffic.
- Distracted drivers in a heavily commercial zone.
Accidents here often involve multiple vehicles and serious damage.
What to Do if You Are in a Car Accident
If you find yourself in an accident at one of these dangerous intersections in Atlanta, taking the right steps is crucial to protecting your health and legal rights.
Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
Document the Scene
- Take photos of all vehicles, the intersection, and visible injuries.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Exchange insurance and contact info with the other driver(s).
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like whiplash or internal injuries) may not show symptoms immediately.
Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers can guide you through the claims process and fight to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How Buddoo and Associates Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to downplay your injuries or offer lowball settlements. That’s where we step in.
- We offer a free consultation to review your case.
- We negotiate with insurance companies.
- We can represent you in a lawsuit if a fair settlement can’t be reached.
- No upfront fees: You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Dangerous Atlanta intersections pose serious risks. By staying informed about these hotspots and exercising caution, you can help protect yourself. However, if you find yourself injured due to someone else’s negligence, Buddoo and Associates is here to fight for you.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Let our dedicated and experienced attorneys help you get the justice you deserve.