Driving is a convenient and often necessary part of living in Hattiesburg, but that doesn’t mean it is completely safe. Learning about some of the most dangerous roads and intersections in Hattiesburg, MS, can help you stay safe while driving.
Factors that Increase the Risk of a Car Accident
While certain intersections have higher rates of accidents, it is important to remember the underlying causes. Some crashes are caused by mechanical issues, road conditions, or environmental conditions, but driver error is the leading cause of car crashes.
Some of the most common types of driver errors in a car accident case include:
- Speeding: Speeding is involved in over 32 fatalities every day. Not only does speeding increase the risk of an accident happening, but it can also lead to more severe damage.
- Distracted driving: Cell phone usage, eating, drinking, or grooming are all leading causes of distractions. Cell phones are one of the most common distractions, with 23% of Americans reporting having admitted to writing or sending an email or text message in the last month.
- Violating traffic laws: Whether it is failing to yield the right-of-way or running a red light, violating traffic laws can lead to a serious accident in an instant.
- Driving under the influence: In 2023, 12,429 people died in drunk driving accidents. By slowing reaction speed, worsening decision-making, and impairing coordination, driving under the influence can be deadly.
Dangerous Roads in Hattiesburg, MS
- Hardy Street (US-98): Many of the most dangerous intersections are along Hardy Street, with complex traffic controls and multiple lanes of traffic. Hardy Street has frequent, constant congestion and varied driving speeds that increase the risk of an accident. Additionally, there is a high risk due to driver behaviors like distracted driving and speeding.
- U.S. Highway 49: Highway 49 is such a major route for many commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles. This highway has a high risk of commercial truck accidents because of the high speeds and frequent use by truckers. Additionally, the transition between four-lane traffic and more congested commercial areas requires drivers to stay alert and conscious of their speed. Unfortunately, many drivers speed and are unprepared for the frequent lane changes.
- I-59: I-59 is notorious for its dangerous infrastructure. For example, at mile marker 96, just northeast of Hattiesburg, the sharp S-shaped curve leads to many accidents. Additionally, certain overpasses are often damaged by trucks, which requires frequent construction and increases the risk of a truck accident.
The Most Dangerous Intersections in Hattiesburg, MS
- Hardy Street and Westover Drive: At this intersection, multiple lanes of traffic and complex turning patterns make it difficult for many drivers, increasing the risk of violating traffic laws to get into the correct lane of traffic, or for inexperienced drivers who are unsure where to go. Furthermore, many drivers report seeing aggressive driving or drivers blocking this intersection.
- Hardy Street and Weathersby Road: The intersection between Hardy Street and Weathersby Road is one of the most congested intersections in Hattiesburg. This congestion along an otherwise high-speed artery can increase the risk of speeding accidents and aggressive driving.
- Hardy Street and 40th Avenue: Similar to other intersections along Hardy Street, this intersection has high-speed traffic combined with heavy congestion. This intersection also requires careful lane changes, with multiple different turning lanes that drivers must navigate.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident?
After a car accident, you should move to a safe location, contact the police, and receive medical treatment for any injuries. Once your personal safety and health are protected, you can begin preparing to file a claim. You should exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
Next, begin gathering evidence, such as:
- Photographs of the accident scene and of both vehicles
- Photographs of visible injuries
- The license plate number, make, model, year, and color of the other person’s vehicle
Car accident laws allow you to file a claim against the driver who caused the crash. You should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to help you file a claim and recover the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
What Is the Most Dangerous Turn at an Intersection?
The most dangerous turn is a left-hand turn. This is because it involves turning across multiple lanes of traffic, whereas going straight or turning right does not cross oncoming traffic. Left turn accidents can happen when a driver misjudges the speed of oncoming vehicles or fails to look for pedestrians before turning. Unprotected left turns are especially dangerous.
What Is the Most Dangerous Road in Mississippi?
The most dangerous road in Mississippi is likely I-55. This road has frequent accidents and high speeds, leading to a large number of fatalities. I-55 does not run through Hattiesburg, but I-59 is another dangerous interstate that poses a significant risk to Hattiesburg drivers. In general, interstate accidents are often more severe and have higher fatality rates, even if most accidents do not occur on an interstate.
Where Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur?
Most pedestrian accidents occur in urban areas but outside of an intersection. Less than one-quarter of pedestrian fatalities occur at an intersection. Outside of an intersection, more drivers may not be expecting a pedestrian to cross or may not be able to see pedestrians compared to when they are at a crosswalk.
Why Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After a Crash?
A Hattiesburg car accident attorney can build a strong claim against the at-fault driver and advocate for you in court. They can make sure your case meets Mississippi’s car accident laws, correctly establishes the other driver’s liability, and includes a thorough list of your damages. They can reduce your stress while improving your ability to receive compensation by negotiating on your behalf with the other party.
Speak With a Hattiesburg Car Accident Attorney Today
Daniel Wade is guided by the wisdom of Isaiah 1:17 and seeks to advocate for those who need it. He works relentlessly for every client, with values of hard work and accountability learned through his youth experience of farm work and football.
Contact our personal injury attorney at WaideLaw to learn how compassionate legal representation can help you after a car crash on one of the most dangerous roads and intersections in Hattiesburg, MS.
