Most Dangerous Intersections in Tempe, AZ for Car Accidents

Car accidents are a common concern in Tempe, a city known for its busy roadways, student population, and commuter traffic flowing in and out of the Phoenix metro area. Unfortunately, certain intersections in Tempe are far more dangerous than others, with a history of high crash rates and serious injuries. Whether it’s heavy congestion, pedestrian crossings, or drivers running red lights, these high-risk intersections have become known trouble spots.

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Understanding where these accidents are most likely to occur can help drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians take extra precautions. Below, we highlight the most dangerous intersections in Tempe, based on crash statistics, city data, and community reports.

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The Most Dangerous Intersections in Tempe, AZ

Several intersections in Tempe stand out for their history of frequent and often serious crashes. These locations combine heavy traffic, nearby businesses or schools, and high pedestrian activity, making them especially hazardous:

• McClintock Dr & Rio Salado Pkwy – With more than 400 reported crashes in recent years, this intersection is among the busiest commuter corridors in Tempe and consistently ranks as one of the city’s most dangerous.
• Baseline Rd & Kyrene Rd – Nearly 400 crashes have been documented here. The mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial traffic, and high-speed drivers makes it a hotspot for collisions.
• Broadway Rd & McClintock Dr – Over 370 crashes have been recorded, many involving left-turn conflicts and heavy daily traffic.
• Mill Ave & Southern Ave – Known for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, this intersection has seen more than 350 accidents. The combination of downtown access and commuter flow contributes to frequent collisions.
• Southern Ave & Rural Rd – Another intersection near ASU that sees heavy use around the clock, with more than 350 crashes reported.
• Rural Rd & Baseline Rd – This intersection has been singled out in recent safety reports for multiple fatal crashes, highlighting the dangers when high-volume traffic meets fast-moving vehicles.

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In addition to these well-documented crash sites, several intersections pose elevated risks for pedestrians and cyclists, including:

• University Dr & Rural Rd – Heavy student foot traffic makes this a common site for pedestrian accidents.
• Apache Blvd & McClintock Dr – The presence of light rail tracks adds complexity for both drivers and pedestrians.
• Baseline Rd & Priest Dr – Speeding and poor visibility have made this crossing especially dangerous for pedestrians.

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Why Intersections in Tempe Are Risky

Tempe is unique compared to other Arizona cities because of its mix of commuters, college students, and heavy pedestrian traffic. With Arizona State University at the center of the city, thousands of students cross busy roadways daily, often near high-speed intersections. Add in light rail tracks, buses, and constant rideshare activity, and it creates a complex traffic environment where accidents can happen quickly.

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Several factors contribute to the higher risks in Tempe:

• Large student population: ASU students and staff frequently cross busy intersections on foot or by bike.
• Public transit routes: Light rail, buses, and rideshares add complexity to already crowded streets.
• Major commuter roads: Arterials like Rural Road, Baseline Road, and McClintock Drive carry thousands of vehicles daily.
• Congestion at mixed-use areas: Intersections near retail centers and neighborhoods face constant stop-and-go traffic.

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In 2024 alone, the City of Tempe reported 15 intersection crashes resulting in serious injury or death. These numbers show that the risks are not only frequent but also severe, underscoring the importance of exercising caution at these high-risk intersections.

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What Makes These Intersections Dangerous

Each of Tempe’s high-risk intersections shares certain characteristics that increase the chance of collisions. A common issue is driver behavior, including distracted driving, speeding, and red-light running, which are among the leading causes of intersection crashes. When drivers take risks at already busy intersections, the likelihood of a serious accident increases rapidly.

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Another factor is the mix of traffic types. In Tempe, cars often share the road with bicyclists, pedestrians, buses, and even light rail trains. Intersections like Apache Boulevard and McClintock Drive illustrate this challenge, where multiple transportation modes converge and compete for space. Pedestrians in crosswalks, especially near the ASU campus, face added risk when drivers fail to yield or misjudge timing.

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Finally, road design and congestion contribute to the danger. Wide, multi-lane intersections can create confusion for drivers attempting left turns or navigating through heavy traffic. Poor visibility, short signal cycles, and high-speed approaches compound the problem.

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Some of the most common risk factors include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone behind the wheel
• Drivers speeding or running red lights
• Heavy pedestrian crossings near ASU and commercial centers
• Complex intersections with buses, cyclists, and light rail tracks
• Poor visibility or confusing lane layouts at wide intersections

The City of Tempe has recognized these issues and launched safety initiatives under its Vision Zero program, including photo-enforcement cameras to discourage speeding and red-light violations at the most crash-prone intersections.

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What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident at One of These Intersections

Even the most cautious driver can end up in a collision at one of Tempe’s dangerous intersections. Knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident can protect your health and strengthen your legal case.

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Here’s a simple checklist to follow if you’re involved in a crash:

• Call 911 right away – Report the accident and request medical help if anyone is injured.
• Get to safety – If possible, move yourself and your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further danger.
• Seek medical care – Even if injuries seem minor, symptoms often appear hours or days later.
• Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange information – Collect contact and insurance details from the other driver.
• Gather witness statements – If anyone saw the crash, ask for their names and contact info.
• Avoid admitting fault – Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurance companies.

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Taking these steps helps ensure your immediate safety while also preserving valuable evidence for any insurance claim or legal action. Attorney Adithya Bala emphasizes that your well-being always comes first, and the legal process can wait until you are safe and cared for.

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How Bala Legal Services Can Help

If you have been injured in a car accident at one of Tempe’s high-risk intersections, having the right attorney on your side can make all the difference. At Bala Legal Services, Attorney Adithya Bala focuses on representing injury victims with care and integrity.

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Unlike many attorneys who focus on trial litigation, Adithya concentrates on negotiating fair and strong settlements with insurance companies. He knows that most clients want to recover quickly and move forward with their lives, not spend years tied up in court. His approach is designed to protect clients from being pressured into accepting less than they deserve.

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Adithya’s representation also stands out because of the way he serves his clients:

• Fair fees: He works on a contingency basis and often reduces his fee to ensure clients keep the majority of their settlement.
• Client-first principle: He will never take more than what his client receives.
• Personal review: Every case is carefully reviewed by Adithya himself after his paralegal gathers the initial details.
• Timely responses: Most clients receive a decision on case acceptance within one to two days.
• Community focus: Guided by the value of “Seva,” he believes in giving back and helping clients return to their families whole.

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When you contact Bala Legal Services, you can expect more than just legal representation. You receive an advocate who is committed to both your recovery and your future.

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Call for a Free Consultation Today

Knowing which intersections in Tempe are the most dangerous can help you stay alert and take extra precautions, but accidents can still happen even when you are careful. When they do, it is important to have a lawyer who will put your health and recovery first.

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At Bala Legal Services, Attorney Adithya Bala is committed to helping accident victims secure fair settlements while ensuring they feel supported throughout the process. His focus is not only on winning cases but also on making sure clients can return to their families and daily lives with peace of mind.

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If you or a loved one has been injured in a Tempe intersection accident, do not wait to get the help you need. Call Bala Legal Services today for a free consultation. Adithya Bala and his team will fight to secure the compensation you deserve and guide you every step of the way.