10 Dangerous Intersections in Rockwall, TX for Car Accidents

March 30, 2024

In 2023, Rockwall, Texas experienced a startling 601 car accidents at intersections, involving 1,304 vehicles and affecting 1,762 people.

To help you navigate these high-risk areas and stay safe on the road, this article explores the 10 most dangerous intersections in Rockwall based on 2023 accident data from TXDOT’s CRIS system. Here’s an overview:

The below heat map illustrates the car accident hotspots at intersections across Rockwall, Texas in 2023:

The following cluster map of 2023 car wrecks at intersections in Rockwall offers a detailed view of high-incident intersections and interchanges throughout the city:

10. John King Blvd. & Airport Rd.: A Hotspot for Auto Accidents

10 car accidents occurred at the intersection of John King Blvd. and Airport Rd. in 2023.

This intersection is located in northeast Rockwall near the Ralph M. Hall Municipal Airport. Drivers in a rush to catch flights, unfamiliar airport visitors, and airport employees contribute to increased traffic and potential distractions at this intersection, possibly leading to more accidents.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Airport traffic: Drivers may be distracted by flight schedules or navigating to and from the airport.
• Potential for speeding: Motorists in a hurry might be more likely to speed or make hasty decisions.
• Unfamiliarity with the area: Visitors may be confused by signage or unfamiliar with the layout of the roads.

Common types of accidents here:

• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops or distractions.
• Side-impact crashes from misjudging gaps in traffic or running red lights.

Injuries at this intersection:

Injuries range from whiplash to serious head injuries or broken bones, depending on the severity of the collision.

9. TX-205 & FM 549: A Risky Rockwall Intersection

In 2023, 13 car accidents occurred at the intersection of TX-205 and FM 549.

This intersection, situated in a more rural area of Rockwall, may be prone to speeding and limited visibility in some areas. The lack of traffic controls on some roadways can also create confusion and contribute to accidents.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Potential for speeding: The open nature of the roads might encourage drivers to exceed speed limits.
• Limited visibility: Curves or vegetation in rural areas could obscure sight lines.
• Lack of traffic controls: Depending on the specific area, stop signs or traffic lights may be absent, leading to misjudgments.

Common types of accidents here:

• Head-on collisions due to misjudging distances at high speeds.
• T-bone accidents from drivers pulling out of side roads without adequate visibility.
• Rollover accidents if drivers lose control while speeding around curves.

Injuries at this intersection:

Due to the potential for higher speeds, injuries at this intersection could be particularly severe, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries.

8. Goliad St. & Ridge Rd./Emma Jane: Navigating a Complex Junction

In 2023, 16 car accidents occurred at the intersection of S. Goliad St. & Ridge Rd./Emma Jane.

The convergence of three roads at this intersection creates a complex configuration that can lead to driver errors. This intersection is also near the Ridge Road Shopping Center, attracting additional traffic, especially during busy seasons like the holidays.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Complex layout: Many drivers may get confused by the three-way intersection and make misjudgments.
• Shopping center traffic: The influx of cars turning in and out of businesses creates more potential collision points.
• Driver distraction: Shoppers might be focused on finding stores or parking, not on other vehicles.

Common types of accidents here:

• Side-impact collisions when turning or misjudging gaps in traffic.
• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops near shopping center entrances.

Injuries at this intersection:

While injuries could range in severity, the combination of slower traffic near stores and faster-moving traffic on the main roads could lead to unexpected and potentially serious accidents.

7. Horizon Rd. & Summer Lee Dr.: Dangers Near Rockwall Village

17 car accidents occurred at the intersection of Horizon Rd. & Summer Lee Dr. in 2023.

This intersection is situated close to Rockwall Village, a popular shopping and dining destination. The increased traffic flow, combined with drivers potentially distracted by nearby businesses, creates a higher risk environment.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Heavy traffic congestion: The presence of shops and restaurants naturally draws more vehicles to the area, especially during peak hours.
• Frequent turns: There’s an increased chance of collisions due to cars turning in and out of businesses and parking lots.

Common types of accidents here:

• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops and unexpected slowdowns.
• Side-impact crashes when drivers misjudge traffic flow while turning.

Injuries at this intersection:

While injuries could be minor, the mix of distracted drivers and sudden traffic changes creates a risk for both fender benders and more serious collisions.

6. I-30 & John King Blvd.: A Busy Interstate Interchange

22 car accidents occurred at the intersection of I-30 and John King Blvd. in 2023.

Interstate interchanges are often hotspots for accidents due to the combination of high speeds and complex merging traffic patterns. Drivers unfamiliar with the Rockwall area might also become confused by signage or make hasty lane changes, further increasing the risk of collisions.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• High-speed traffic: Vehicles on I-30 move at highway speeds, leaving little margin for error.
• Merging and lane changes: Drivers entering and exiting the highway must navigate multiple lanes of traffic in a short amount of time.
• Unfamiliar drivers: Visitors to the area may struggle with the interchange layout or make sudden maneuvers.

Common types of accidents here:

• Side-impact collisions due to misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic or improper lane changes.
• Rear-end collisions from sudden braking or unexpected lane changes.
• Multi-car pileups can occur as a result of a single collision in high-traffic areas.

Injuries at this intersection:

The high speeds involved in interstate accidents mean injuries can range from moderate to very severe, including broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

5. I-30 & Corporate Crossing/Stodghill Rd.: High Traffic, High Risk

29 car accidents occurred at the intersection of I-30 & Corporate Crossing/Stodghill Rd in 2023.

This interstate intersection experiences a consistently high volume of traffic. The combination of cars merging from entrance ramps, potential for sudden lane changes, and nearby retail developments all contribute to increased risks.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Heavy traffic volume: Interstate interchanges naturally see a large number of vehicles, increasing the chances of collisions.
• Merging and exits: Drivers entering or leaving the highway have to navigate multiple lanes of traffic and adjust their speeds quickly.
• Nearby businesses: The presence of retail developments further adds to the number of cars in the area, creating congestion.

Common types of accidents here:

• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops or misjudging the speed of merging traffic.
• Side-impact crashes when drivers make abrupt lane changes.
• Chain-reaction accidents, with a single crash leading to multiple vehicles getting involved.

Injuries at this intersection:

Similar to other interstate collisions, injuries can be severe due to the high speeds. Whiplash, broken bones, and head trauma are all possibilities.

4. Goliad St. (TX-205) & Rusk St.: Hazards in Old Downtown Rockwall

30 car accidents occurred at the intersection of Goliad St. (TX-205) and Rusk St. in 2023.

Located near the heart of historic downtown Rockwall, this intersection presents a unique set of challenges. It blends older infrastructure with modern traffic, and includes higher pedestrian activity, all of which contribute to the risk of accidents.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Mix of old and new: Narrower streets and tight corners from older city design can be challenging for modern vehicles.
• Pedestrian traffic: Shoppers and visitors to downtown increase the chance of collisions with vehicles.
• Limited visibility: Parked cars, historic buildings, and landscaping can block drivers’ lines of sight.

Common types of accidents here:

• Low-speed collisions due to limited maneuvering space and tight turns.
• Side-impact collisions from misjudging gaps in traffic or cars pulling out from parking spots.
• Accidents involving pedestrians who may be unexpectedly crossing the street.

Injuries at this intersection:

While accidents in this area might happen at lower speeds, the presence of pedestrians heightens the risk. Injuries could range from minor to severe, especially for those on foot.

3. I-30 & Goliad St. (TX-205): A Risky Intersection Near Rockwall High School

34 car accidents occurred at the intersection of I-30 and Goliad St. (TX-205) in 2023.

The proximity of this intersection to Rockwall High School adds a unique risk factor. There’s a significant increase in traffic during peak school hours, and the potential for inexperienced teen drivers adds to the overall danger.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• School traffic: Before and after school, traffic surges as students, parents, and buses navigate the area.
• Inexperienced drivers: Teen drivers may be more prone to errors or distractions, increasing the risk of misjudgments.
• High-speed interstate traffic: Vehicles on I-30 move quickly, creating a hazardous mix with slower local traffic.

Common types of accidents here:

• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops or unexpected slowdowns near the school zone.
• Side-impact collisions from misjudging traffic flow or running red lights.
• Distracted driving accidents, especially involving teen drivers.

Injuries at this intersection:

The combination of high-speed interstate traffic and potential for inexperienced drivers means there’s a risk of serious injuries. Even minor collisions could be more severe if they involve young drivers.

2. I-30 & Village Dr./Horizon Rd.: Dangers Near Lake Ray Hubbard

39 car accidents occurred at the intersection of I-30 & Village Dr./Horizon Rd. in 2023.

This intersection acts as a gateway to Lake Ray Hubbard, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and recreation. The increased traffic, along with the potential for distracted drivers, makes this area more prone to accidents.

Why this intersection is dangerous:

• Lake traffic: Visitors heading to the lake add to the regular traffic flow, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Driver distraction: Drivers focused on navigating to the lake or anticipating their activities could be less attentive to the road.
• Mix of traffic speeds: Highway traffic moving at faster speeds interacts with slower-moving local traffic navigating to and from the lake.

Common types of accidents here:

• Rear-end collisions due to sudden stops, slowdowns, and unexpected turns toward the lake.
• Side-impact crashes from misjudging traffic flow or running red lights.
• Accidents involving boat trailers, jet skis, or other recreational equipment.

Injuries at this intersection:

The range of potential injuries could be wide. High-speed interstate traffic can lead to severe accidents, while the mix of vehicles and recreational equipment creates additional risks.

1. I-30 & Ridge Rd.: Rockwall’s Most Dangerous Intersection

42 car accidents occurred at the intersection of I-30 and Ridge Rd. in 2023.

Similar to other intersections along I-30, this location poses challenges with high-speed interstate traffic and merging vehicles. Additionally, with its position near the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, this intersection sees significant traffic increases during the summer months, compounding the risks.

Why this intersection is the most dangerous:

• Heavy interstate traffic: I-30 is a major thoroughfare, carrying a constant flow of high-speed vehicles.
• Merging and lane changes: On-ramps, off-ramps, and complex lane configurations require quick maneuvering.
• Lake Ray Hubbard traffic: The influx of visitors to the lake, especially during peak-season, further increases traffic volume.
• Potential for distraction: Drivers may be focused on lake activities or unfamiliar with the area, leading to reduced attention.

Common types of accidents here:

• Severe rear-end collisions due to sudden stops and misjudging high-speed traffic.
• Side-impact crashes from improper merging, lane changes, or running red lights.
• Multi-car pile-ups are a significant risk, particularly in high-traffic conditions.

Injuries at this intersection:

Given the interstate speeds and potential for multi-car collisions, injuries at this intersection can be extremely serious. These could include head and spinal injuries, broken bones, internal bleeding, and even fatalities.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You After a Rockwall Car Crash

If you’ve been injured in a car crash at one of the intersections mentioned above, or anywhere else in Rockwall, an experienced car accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. A lawyer can help you:

• Identify all liable parties: Sometimes multiple drivers or even city infrastructure problems could be factors in your accident.
• Gather evidence: Your lawyer can collect police reports, witness statements, and medical records to strengthen your case.
• Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts; your lawyer will fight for fair compensation.
• Represent you in court: If a settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer will take your case to trial.

Additional Tips for Avoiding Accidents at Dangerous Intersections:

• Be extra vigilant: Pay close attention to traffic lights, signals, and the movements of other drivers, especially at the dangerous intersections mentioned.
• Drive defensively: Anticipate other drivers’ potential mistakes and be prepared to react.
• Avoid distractions: Put your phone away and focus solely on the road.
• Drive cautiously during rush hour: Give yourself extra time and be prepared for heavy traffic.