Ever wonder why some Little Rock intersections feel like a game of chance? Our city’s bustling streets tell a tale of growth, but with it comes a price. As vehicles zip through our neighborhoods, certain crossroads have earned a notorious reputation.
In 2022 alone, the state saw over 640 fatalities from car accidents, with the count for the number of serious injuries exceeding 2500.
These aren’t just statistics; they’re stories waiting to unfold. From fender-benders to life-altering collisions, each incident reshapes lives and communities. But knowledge is power, and understanding these danger zones can be your shield. We’ll dive into the heart of Little Rock’s traffic troubles, unraveling the complexities that make some intersections more dangerous.
When you finish reading, you’ll navigate our streets with newfound awareness, transforming from a passive commuter into a proactive road warrior.
Asher and the University
This bustling crossroads sees an alarming number of accidents annually. Heavy traffic from the nearby University of Arkansas at Little Rock contributes to the chaos. The intersection’s wide expanse encourages speeding, especially during off-peak hours.
Left turns here are particularly perilous. Drivers frequently misjudge oncoming traffic’s speed. The area’s commercial activity adds to the congestion. Delivery trucks and buses further complicate traffic flow.
In August 2022, a fatal single-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of South University and Asher Avenues around 2:00 a.m. 63-year-old Benjamin Barnett was driving a 2007 Toyota northbound on South University Avenue.
His vehicle veered off the road and collided with a traffic light pole. Mr. Barnett succumbed to his injuries at the scene. No other individuals were involved in the accident.
Pedestrians crossing to reach local businesses face significant risks. Faded lane markings confuse drivers, especially at night, with rear-end collisions being common. Local authorities have discussed redesigning this intersection, but budget constraints have delayed major overhauls. Until then, extreme caution is advised when navigating this treacherous spot.
Markham and Mississippi
Markham and Mississippi—the heart of Little Rock’s medical district—throb with a unique kind of energy. It’s a ballet of flashing lights and hurried sirens, a constant stream of cars ferrying patients and weary doctors. But for the uninitiated, this intersection can feel more like a mosh pit than a graceful dance.
The crux of the challenge lies in the confluence of several factors. Firstly, the sheer volume of traffic, particularly medical center shuttles and emergency vehicles, necessitates heightened awareness from all road users.
Secondly, the intersection’s sprawling layout features multiple turn lanes. This is a potential minefield for unfamiliar drivers scrambling for the correct lane at the last minute. This risks a dangerous game of last-second lane changes and potential sideswipes.
On June 17, 2024, York Regional Police responded to a multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of Don Mills Road and Simonston Boulevard in Markham. The accident involved a box truck and two sedans.
Initial investigations revealed that the southbound box truck crossed the center lane into oncoming traffic, striking two vehicles. A blue sedan was severely damaged in the collision, and the 33-year-old female driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the other sedan sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment. The truck driver is facing charges in connection with this incident.
Colonel Glenn and the University
At this bustling crossroads, the pursuit of knowledge collides with the rush of daily life. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s sprawling campus dominates one corner, its clock tower standing sentinel over the chaos below. Students dash across crosswalks, their backpacks bouncing in time with hurried steps.
Come game day, this intersection transforms. A sea of maroon and white floods the streets as Trojan fans make their pilgrimage to the Jack Stephens Center. The air buzzes with excitement and danger as pedestrians weave between cars with reckless abandon.
Local hotspots like Whole Hog Café and Tropical Smoothie Cafe draw hungry crowds, their parking lots spilling onto the main roads. Watch for the UALR shuttle; it creates momentary bottlenecks. And don’t be fooled by the newly installed LED traffic signals. They’re bright, but the intersection’s quirks still catch many off guard.
If you ever get involved in an accident in the busy nooks and crannies of Little Rock, do not hesitate to seek legal action. Remember, accidents can be life-threatening and impact your job and daily life.
You should work with an experienced Little Rock personal injury lawyer who is well-versed in the local laws. Moreover, they will also help you keep an eye on the legal deadlines concerning your case.
According to Keith Law Group, lawyers can guide you through the procedure, assist in gathering proof, and reach an agreement with insurance companies. Legal assistance also reduces stress and increases your chances of getting compensated for your injuries.
Roosevelt and Broadway
At the heart of Little Rock’s downtown, Roosevelt and Broadway pulsate with urban energy. This intersection, where history meets modernity, harbors hidden dangers beneath its bustling façade.
Lunchtime transforms the crossroads into a gauntlet of harried government workers, their minds on meetings rather than moving vehicles. Tourists, enchanted by the nearby River Market, often wander into traffic, oblivious to local rhythms.
The intersection’s expansive lanes beckon speed demons when crowds thin, while its blind spots lurk in the shadows of century-old structures. Left turns here require nerves of steel and a sixth sense for unseen hazards. Delivery trucks, vital yet vexing, create impromptu obstacle courses for unsuspecting drivers.
On December 2nd, 2022, Little Rock Police Department’s 12th Street Patrol Officers responded to a vehicle-pedestrian collision on the 1000 block of East Roosevelt. MEMS (Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services) transported the injured pedestrian to a local hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the victim succumbed to their injuries.
Public transit adds another beat to this complex choreography. Buses lumber in and out, their bulk obscuring crucial sightlines. Despite—or perhaps because of—these challenges, Roosevelt and Broadway remain a crucible of city life. It’s where Little Rock’s past, present, and future collide, sometimes literally.
Your Survival Guide
Navigating Little Rock’s treacherous intersections demands more than mere luck. Embrace defensive driving as your new mantra. Anticipate the unexpected—that car might swerve, that pedestrian might jaywalk. Stay alert, even when familiar routes lull you into complacency.
Cultivate patience on your daily commute. Rushing saves minutes but risks lives. Breathe deeply when traffic crawls. Use this time to observe your surroundings, noting potential hazards. Remember, arriving safely trumps arriving quickly.
Technology can be your ally. GPS apps with real-time traffic updates help you avoid congestion hotspots. Some even warn of upcoming dangerous intersections. But don’t let screens distract you—mount your phone securely and set routes before driving.
You cannot forget to wear your seat belt. As mentioned earlier, there were over 640 fatalities in 2022 alone. A significant portion, 415 (or 65%), involved occupants of passenger vehicles. Nearly half (45%, or 188) of this number involved individuals who were not buckled up. This reinforces the need for consistent seatbelt use to minimize injuries and fatalities in the event of a collision.
Moreover, learn each intersection’s quirks. At Roosevelt and Broadway, watch for hurried lunch crowds. Approach Asher and the University intersection cautiously during class change times. At Cantrell and Mississippi, be wary of blind spots created by the road’s curve.
Above all, stay focused. Put away distractions. Keep both hands on the wheel. By combining awareness, patience, and technology, you’ll transform from a passive driver into an active guardian of safety.
FAQs
Q: What are some of the common dangers I should be aware of at these intersections?
A. The most prevalent dangers include heavy traffic flow, confusing lane layouts, limited visibility, and unpredictable pedestrian behavior. Intersections like Asher and University see speeding during off-peak hours and risky left turns. Markham and Mississippi present challenges due to emergency vehicles and multi-lane turns.
Q: Besides the ones mentioned, are there other dangerous intersections in Little Rock?
A. Be aware of Shackleford and I-430 with 179, known for heavy traffic from the hospital and surrounding businesses. Baseline Road and Chicot Road, Baseline Road and Geyer Springs Road, Cantrell Road, and I-430 are other accident-prone areas. Always research traffic patterns and road conditions before venturing into unfamiliar territory.
Q: What should I do if I’m involved in an accident at one of these intersections?
A. First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately. Once the scene is secure, document the accident by taking pictures and exchanging information with other drivers and any witnesses. Most importantly, consider seeking legal counsel from an experienced personal injury lawyer who specializes in traffic accidents.
All in all, Little Rock’s bustling streets bring economic vibrancy, but a hidden cost lurks beneath the surface. Dangerous intersections expose drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to the constant threat of accidents.
Navigating these areas requires awareness and defensive driving techniques. However, the bigger picture involves infrastructure improvements, traffic flow management, and responsible road usage from all parties.
By acknowledging these challenges and working towards solutions, we can transform these intersections from danger zones into safe passageways for everyone.
