Car accidents are a severe and frequent danger on Mississippi roads. According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the state. Mississippi also has one of the highest traffic fatality rates per capita in the country.
The risks are even more significant in Gulfport, Mississippi. A recent study by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety found that the city ranks third overall for car accident fatalities in the state.
Driving in Gulfport can be dangerous. But knowing the city’s high-risk areas can help you stay safe. Even then, you can’t control other people’s actions, so collisions may be unavoidable. You may be entitled to compensation if you were injured in a car accident that someone else caused in Gulfport. The experienced team of lawyers and paralegals at Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC is here to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
U.S. Highway 49 & Creosote Road
U.S. Highway 49 is one of the busiest streets in Gulfport. It can be a treacherous stretch of road with its shopping centers, outlet mall, and proximity to the airport, hospitals, and Interstate 10.
Where U.S. Route 49 crosses with Creosote Road is one of the most dangerous intersections in Mississippi because of:
- Heavy commercial vehicle traffic – Commercial vehicles can cause blind spots for themselves and other drivers. This area has an increased commercial vehicle presence due to its location by the interstate, gas stations, and The Home Depot, where many commercial vehicles stop for supplies.
- Frequent lane changes – The proximity to popular shopping centers, restaurants, and I-10 can increase lane changes and turns, adding to the risk of accidents.
- Traffic congestion – High traffic can increase fender benders and collisions due to tailgating and distracted driving.
U.S. Highway 49 & Community Road
U.S. Highway 49 remains a dangerous road as it continues north. Here are the reasons this is a high-risk area:
- Multiple lanes – U.S. Highway 49 has six through lanes and several turn lanes, while Community Road has three lanes, making navigation complex.
- Right-of-way confusion – Yielding onto U.S. Highway 49 from Community Road can confuse drivers, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Nearby hospital – This intersection is a block from the Singing River Gulfport Hospital off Community Road. This increases traffic from patients and hospital personnel, including ambulances and other emergency vehicles.
U.S. Highway 49 & Interstate 10 Interchange
This central connection point contains complex merging patterns. A major interstate highway can increase danger to drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists due to:
- High speeds – Vehicles accelerate when entering the interstate, increasing the potential for high-impact crashes.
- Merging – When drivers refuse to accept mergers, the risk of collisions, such as sideswipes and rear-ends, can increase.
- Significant traffic congestion – This is also a high-traffic area with the risk of collisions due to rush hour and the presence of heavy commercial vehicles.
O’Neal Road & Three Rivers Road
The O’Neal Road and Three Rivers Road intersection is known for heavy gridlock. The reasons why this intersection poses a significant risk include:
- Heavy traffic congestion – The growing number of residential and commercial buildings has contributed to regular long lines at the intersection.
- Lack of proper shoulder – There is a ditch instead of a proper shoulder. Drivers can land in this ditch if they lose control and run off the road.
- Lack of turn lanes – There is only one turn lane – a short right lane heading northbound. There are no other turn lanes at this intersection. This contributes to traffic and may encourage reckless driving to avoid drivers going straight.
Safety Tips for Driving in Gulfport, Mississippi
Gulfport may be one of the nation’s riskiest driving cities. However, there are ways to protect yourself and prevent an accident, even at the most dangerous roads and intersections:
- Obey traffic lights and signals. Avoid running red lights or speeding through yellow lights. Stop and yield as needed, especially when turning left at an intersection.
- Stay alert. Anticipate other drivers’ actions, such as cutting cars off, making sudden lane changes, and running stop lights.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists. These intersections are in high-traffic areas for pedestrians and cyclists, so check your mirrors and look over your shoulder.
- Avoid distractions. Eliminate anything that takes your attention away from driving, including texting, using your cellphone, applying makeup, and other potential distractions.
What to Do After a Car Accident at a Gulfport Intersection
You may still find yourself in a collision despite being a safe driver and following all the rules of the road. Here are the steps to take if you are in a Gulfport intersection accident:
- Document the scene and take pictures of everything, including injuries and property damage.
- Gather the other driver’s information, witness statements, and the responding police officer’s report.
- Seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor or nonexistent – internal injuries may be a concern.
- Notify your insurance company and provide them with basic information about the accident.
- Contact a Gulfport car accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights, determine if you have a case, and defend you in court.
Do You Have Specific Questions? Contact Our Law Firm Today
If you suffered injuries in a Gulfport intersection accident, our legal team at Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have over 10 years of experience representing injury victims and securing successful outcomes, including $1,150,000 in a wrongful death motor vehicle collision.
Our clients trust us to provide skilled legal representation and unwavering support. One client shared:
“I hired Jonathan for an accident with an 18 wheeler. This was such a traumatic time for me. Jonathan showed great compassion for what I was going through. He is very personable, honest, direct, and sincere. He always responded in a timely fashion. My case was not an easy one, but he fought hard to get the highest amount possible. I love his staff, everyone is so friendly. I highly recommend Jonathan for your legal needs.” – Cheryl K.
Call (228) 872-8752 or reach out online today for a free consultation. Our team is here to take care of your car accident claim for you so you can focus on what matters most – your recovery.