10 Dangerous Intersections in Garland, TX for Car Accidents

March 18, 2024

Garland drivers, brace yourselves: 2023 was a dangerous year on our intersections. In 2023, intersections in Garland, Texas experienced a total of 1,458 car accidents, involving 3,024 vehicles, and 4,166 people.

This article is based on data in TXDOT’s CRIS system. Here’s an overview of this article:

The heat map below highlights the car accident hotspots at intersections in Garland, Texas during 2023:

This cluster map offers a closer look at dangerous intersections and interchanges within Garland:

10. S. Shiloh Rd. & W. Miller Rd.: A Garland Accident Hotspot

The intersection of S. Shiloh Road and W. Miller Road in Garland saw 15 car accidents in 2023.

Located in southeast Garland, this busy intersection sits near residential areas like the Southgate neighborhood and commercial centers like the Shiloh Marketplace Shopping Center. It’s a standard crossroads with traffic lights, featuring Shiloh Rd. as the wider main road.

Why does this intersection see so many accidents?

• Traffic mix: Local drivers from neighborhoods often need to merge with the higher flow of traffic on Shiloh Rd., increasing the chances of misjudgments and collisions.
• Distractions: The presence of shops and businesses like the Shiloh Marketplace Shopping Center can easily divert a driver’s focus, leading to errors.
• Turning traffic: Vehicles making turns across traffic, especially those entering or exiting the shopping center, have to accurately judge the distance and speed of oncoming traffic on Shiloh Rd., which gets tricky during peak hours.

Common negligence at this intersection includes:

• Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers turning left from Miller Rd. onto Shiloh Rd. or exiting the Shiloh Marketplace Shopping Center sometimes fail to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, especially during heavy traffic periods.
• Distracted driving (especially with nearby stores): With the lure of shops and restaurants in the Shiloh Marketplace Shopping Center, drivers may be looking away from the road to check their phones, browse menus, or search for parking, leading to missed traffic signals or delayed reactions.
• Misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic: The wider lanes and straighter path of Shiloh Rd. can tempt drivers to misjudge its speed, especially those unfamiliar with the area.

Typical car accidents here are likely to be:

• Rear-end collisions: These often occur from sudden stops due to unexpected traffic congestion or misjudged merging from Miller Rd. onto Shiloh Rd.
• Side-impact crashes: Turning errors from drivers entering or exiting the Shiloh Marketplace Shopping Center, or those misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic on Shiloh Rd., can lead to side-impact crashes.
• Accidents involving turning vehicles and oncoming traffic: When turning left from Miller Rd. or exiting the shopping center, drivers who fail to yield or misjudge the gap in oncoming traffic can cause accidents.

Injuries can vary widely, from minor whiplash and bruising to more serious injuries depending on the impact.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Be extra cautious when approaching this intersection, especially during busy hours and weekends when the shopping center is likely to be crowded.
• Minimize distractions and keep your eyes focused on traffic, avoiding the temptation to check phones or browse menus while driving.
• If turning, double-check the speed and distance of oncoming cars on Shiloh Rd. before proceeding.

9. TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) & Naaman School Rd.: A Risky Intersection in Northeast Garland

The intersection of TX-78 (Lavon Drive) & Naaman School Road also had 15 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is located in a busy part of northeast Garland near Naaman Forest High School, neighborhoods like Firewheel and Spring Creek, the Firewheel Golf Park, and Spring Creek Forest Nature Preserve. It’s a crossroads where TX-78 (a major highway) intersects with Naaman School Rd.

What makes this intersection particularly dangerous?

• High school traffic: The presence of Naaman Forest High School means a significant surge in traffic during specific hours, especially with less experienced teen drivers.
• Mix of traffic speeds: TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) is a wider highway with faster traffic, while Naaman School Rd serves local residential areas and the school, leading to a mismatch in speeds and driver expectations.
• Recreational distractions: The proximity of the Firewheel Golf Park and Spring Creek Forest Nature Preserve can create distractions for drivers and increase traffic volume, especially on weekends.

Common negligence at this intersection includes:

• Distracted driving (especially among teens): Teen drivers might be more susceptible to distractions like texting or changing music, increasing the risk of accidents near the high school.
• Speeding: The open highway feel of TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) can tempt drivers to exceed the speed limit, significantly shortening their reaction time.
• Misjudging distances and gaps: Drivers exiting the neighborhoods near Firewheel or the nature preserve may find it difficult to judge the speed and distance of traffic on the highway, leading to mistimed turns or unsafe merging.

Typical car accidents here are likely to be:

• T-bone crashes: These commonly occur when drivers turning from Naaman School Rd. onto TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) misjudge the speed of oncoming highway traffic, leading to side-impact collisions.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops or unexpected slowing on TX-78 (Lavon Dr), especially near the entrance or exit points for the high school, can lead to rear-end accidents.
• Accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists: With students walking or biking to school from nearby neighborhoods and visitors at the nature preserve, there’s a potential risk of pedestrian and cyclist-related accidents.

Injuries could range from moderate to severe due to the potential for higher speeds on TX-78 (Lavon Dr.).

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Be hyper-aware of increased traffic flow during school drop-off and pick-up hours.
• Always practice defensive driving and avoid distractions, especially near the high school.
• When merging or turning onto TX-78 (Lavon Dr.), be sure to leave ample space and time to safely join the flow of traffic.
• Pedestrians and cyclists should use marked crosswalks and exercise extreme caution on this busy intersection.

8. I-30 (US 67) & Broadway Blvd.: Navigating Hazards on Garland’s Border

I-30 (US 67) and Broadway Blvd. saw 17 car accidents at their intersection in 2023.

Located on the southeast border of Garland, it’s a major interchange where I-30 (a busy interstate highway) meets Broadway Blvd. This intersection sits close to Lake Ray Hubbard, making it a common route for travelers entering or leaving Garland from lakeside recreation areas.

Here’s why this intersection might be accident-prone:

• Mix of highway and local traffic: Drivers transitioning from the fast-paced I-30 to the slower pace of Broadway Blvd. (and vice versa) need to adjust their speeds quickly, which can lead to misjudgments and errors.
• Lake traffic influence: Vacationers and locals heading to or returning from Lake Ray Hubbard add to the traffic volume, especially on weekends and holidays. This surge can create congestion and unexpected traffic patterns.
• Interchange complexity: The interchange design itself, with on-ramps, off-ramps, and merging lanes, demands quick decisions and precise maneuvering from drivers.

Common negligence at this intersection includes:

• Speeding: Drivers might carry their highway speeds onto Broadway Blvd., or misjudge the need to slow down when exiting I-30, leading to accidents.
• Improper lane changes: With multiple lanes and merging traffic, unsafe lane changes or weaving between lanes can result in collisions.
• Failure to yield to highway traffic: Drivers entering I-30 from Broadway Blvd. might underestimate the speed of oncoming traffic or miscalculate the gaps between vehicles.

Typical car accidents you might see here include:

• Sideswipes: These can happen due to improper lane changes, especially in heavy traffic or when merging on and off the highway.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops on the highway, or drivers merging onto I-30 too slowly, can lead to rear-end accidents.
• More serious crashes: Due to the potential for high speeds on I-30, accidents at this interchange have a higher potential for inflicting significant injuries.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Strictly obey posted speed limits, especially when transitioning between I-30 and Broadway Blvd.
• Plan lane changes well in advance and use signals clearly.
• Anticipate heavier traffic volumes on weekends and holidays, and adjust your driving accordingly.
• When entering I-30, maintain adequate speed to merge safely with the flow of traffic.

7. N. 1st St. & Main St.: Danger in the Heart of Garland

This intersection, N. 1st St. & Main St., witnessed 18 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is located in a central part of Garland, making it a hub of activity with both local traffic and people moving through the area. Its proximity to downtown likely contributes to the high number of accidents.

Reasons for this intersection’s risk:

• Heavy traffic flow: As a centrally located crossroads, this intersection likely sees significant traffic volume throughout the day, especially during peak commuting hours.
• Mix of traffic patterns: Drivers heading to downtown destinations mingle with local traffic and through traffic, creating a complex mix of driving styles and expectations.
• Potential for congestion: The busy nature of the area increases the chances of bottlenecks or traffic buildup, which can lead to impatience and risky maneuvers.

Common negligence in this area might include:

• Running red lights or stop signs: Drivers rushing to get through the busy intersection might ignore traffic signals, leading to dangerous situations.
• Failure to yield: The mix of drivers navigating through the area might increase instances of failing to yield the right of way.
• Impatience and aggressive driving: Congestion or slowdowns can frustrate drivers, leading to aggressive behavior and poor decisions.

Typical car accidents here are likely to be:

• T-bone collisions: Misjudgments about a vehicle’s speed or right-of-way can lead to dangerous side-impact crashes at this intersection.
• Rear-end collisions: Abrupt stops due to traffic congestion or accidents can cause rear-end collisions.
• Incidents involving pedestrians and cyclists: With the proximity to downtown, there’s a potential risk for accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists crossing the busy intersection.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Practice defensive driving and anticipate delays, especially during rush hour.
• Stay focused and avoid distractions, which are even more dangerous in busy areas.
• Exercise extra caution when making turns or crossing the intersection.
• Pedestrians and cyclists should be especially vigilant and use designated crosswalks whenever possible.

6. President George Bush Hwy. & N. Garland Ave.: A Major Collision Point

This intersection, President George Bush Highway and N. Garland Ave., was the site of 19 car accidents in 2023.

It’s another intersection near Naaman Forest High School, neighborhoods like Firewheel and Spring Creek, the Firewheel Golf Park, and Spring Creek Forest Nature Preserve. This increases traffic flow, especially during school hours as students, parents, and staff come and go.

Here’s why this intersection might see frequent accidents:

• Speed differentials: The President George Bush Turnpike is a major highway with higher speed limits, while N. Garland Ave is a local thoroughfare. The need to adjust speeds quickly can lead to misjudgments.
• High traffic volume: This intersection handles traffic from the nearby high school, residential neighborhoods, and recreational destinations, creating a busy environment at certain times of the day.
• Merging maneuvers: Drivers entering or exiting the highway at N. Garland Ave. need to merge with fast-moving traffic, which can be challenging.

Common negligence at this intersection includes:

• Tailgating: The potential for higher speeds on the highway can tempt drivers to follow too closely, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions if someone brakes suddenly.
• Unsafe lane changes: Abrupt lane changes or weaving in and out of traffic, especially when merging, can easily lead to accidents.
• Misjudging speeds: Drivers might misjudge the speed of traffic on the President George Bush Turnpike when turning or merging, leading to collisions.

Typical types of accidents might include:

• Sideswipes: These can occur during improper lane changes or when merging onto or off the highway.
• Rear-end crashes: Tailgating or sudden stops on the President George Bush Turnpike can result in rear-end collisions.
• More severe accidents: Due to the potential for higher speeds, accidents at this intersection could have a higher likelihood of significant damage and injuries.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Maintain a safe following distance, especially on the highway portion of this intersection.
• Plan lane changes well in advance and always signal your intentions.
• Allow extra time during school hours when traffic is likely to be at its peak volume.
• Be aware of the potential for sudden speed changes around the highway’s entrance and exit points.

5. E. Centerville Rd. & S. 1st St.: Trouble Near Garland Parks

E. Centerville Rd. and S. 1st St. saw a concerning 20 car accidents in 2023.

It’s located near several Garland parks, including Troth Ablon Park, Duck Creek, and Bass Park. The presence of these recreational areas likely influences the traffic patterns and driver behavior at this intersection.

Here’s why this spot might have a higher accident risk:

• Mix of traffic and distractions: Park-goers, dog walkers, families, and people enjoying the outdoors create a mix of traffic speeds and potential distractions compared to a typical intersection.
• Potential for sudden stops: Drivers might brake unexpectedly to search for parking near the parks or to allow pedestrians or cyclists to cross.
• Visibility issues: Park entrances and exits might cause obstructions, limiting visibility for drivers approaching the intersection.

Common negligence at this intersection could include:

• Distracted driving: The presence of recreational activities near the intersection might tempt drivers to take their eyes off the road.
• Failure to yield to pedestrians: Drivers might not give the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street near the parks.
• Speeding: Some drivers might be in a hurry to get to the parks and exceed the speed limit, creating a more dangerous situation.

Typical accidents here might involve:

• Side-impact collisions: These can occur when drivers turning into or out of the parks misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming traffic.
• Rear-end crashes: Sudden stops or unexpected turns related to the park entrances and exits can increase the risk of rear-end accidents.
• Incidents involving pedestrians or cyclists: The higher likelihood of pedestrians and cyclists near the parks increases the risk of accidents, especially if drivers are inattentive.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Be hyper-aware of your surroundings, especially near the parks. Scan for pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential distractions.
• Reduce your speed and drive defensively. Expect drivers to stop suddenly or turn unexpectedly while navigating park entrances.
• Pedestrians and cyclists should use designated crosswalks and exercise caution, even with the right of way.

4. TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) & E. Walnut Circle: Danger Near Downtown Garland

The intersection of TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) and E. Walnut Circle was the site of 20 car accidents in 2023.

Located near Bradfield Park, the Downtown Garland Station, and Old Downtown Garland, this intersection likely sees a mix of commuters, shoppers, and visitors to the historic district.

Here’s why this intersection might be more dangerous:

• Mix of traffic: The combination of residential traffic from nearby areas, drivers heading to downtown destinations, and visitors unfamiliar with the area can create a complex and unpredictable traffic flow.
• Downtown distractions: The allure of shops, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Garland can distract drivers from focusing on the road.
• Confusing traffic patterns: The older downtown area might have less standardized intersections or traffic flow compared to newer parts of the city, presenting drivers with unexpected situations.

Common negligence at this intersection could include:

• Running red lights or stop signs: Drivers eager to reach a downtown destination or distracted by the surroundings might be more likely to misjudge traffic signals or rush through an intersection.
• Improper turning: Drivers unfamiliar with the downtown street layout or looking for parking might make sudden or poorly executed turns.
• Distracted driving: The presence of downtown attractions and the potential for heavy pedestrian traffic can increase the risk of distracted driving.

Typical accidents here might involve:

• Intersection collisions: Misjudged turns, running red lights, or distractions could easily lead to T-bone crashes or other intersection-related accidents.
• Rear-end crashes: Sudden stops due to congestion, unexpected turns, or pedestrian crossings can contribute to rear-end collisions.
• Potential pedestrian or cyclist accidents: The busy downtown area increases the likelihood of accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists crossing the intersection.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Exercise heightened caution when approaching downtown intersections. Expect the unexpected!
• Minimize distractions. Put your phone down and focus on scanning your surroundings for traffic, pedestrians, and potential hazards.
• Anticipate heavier traffic volumes and potential congestion in the downtown area, adjusting your driving accordingly.
• If you’re unfamiliar with downtown Garland, use GPS navigation to help plan your route and avoid sudden turns.

3. S. Garland Ave. & W. Miller Rd.: A High-Risk Intersection

S. Garland Ave. & W. Miller Rd. saw a concerning 21 car accidents in 2023.

It’s located in a diverse area of Garland, close to Duck Creek, Tinsley Park, Oden Park, Central Park, and the Garland Memorial Cemetery. Additionally, there are several industrial and warehouse areas nearby, further influencing this intersection’s traffic patterns.

Factors making this intersection dangerous:

• Diverse traffic mix: Park-goers, cemetery visitors, residents, and commercial traffic create a challenging mix of speeds, turning patterns, and driver priorities.
• Turning conflicts: The intersection likely sees a high volume of turning movements across multiple lanes, increasing the risk of misjudgments.
• Potential for larger vehicles: The presence of industrial and warehouse areas means larger commercial trucks might be present in the traffic mix, making maneuvering more difficult and accidents potentially more severe.

Common negligence at this intersection could include:

• Distracted driving: The variety of destinations and activities in the area might tempt drivers to look at their phones, check for parking spots, or even pay respects at the cemetery rather than focus on driving.
• Speeding: Drivers might misjudge the appropriate speed through the intersection, especially with a mix of residential, park-related, and commercial traffic.
• Improper yielding: The potential for sudden turns, merging vehicles, and larger trucks can increase the risk of failing to yield the right of way.

Typical accidents at this intersection could include:

• Sideswipes: These can happen due to improper lane changes, misjudging the size of larger vehicles, or unexpected merging maneuvers.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops, quick turns, or larger vehicles with longer stopping distances can contribute to rear-end accidents.
• More severe crashes: Due to the potential for larger commercial vehicles and misjudged speeds, accidents at this intersection might result in more significant damage and injuries.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Maintain a heightened state of awareness. This intersection requires extra focus due to its complex traffic mix.
• Anticipate unpredictable driving behaviors from others, including sudden turns, quick lane changes, and misjudged vehicle sizes.
• If you’re driving a smaller vehicle, use extra caution around larger trucks or commercial vehicles. Allow more space for merging and stopping.

2. I-635 & Ferguson Rd.: Navigating a Major Garland Interchange

I-635 and Ferguson Road was the site of a concerning 27 car accidents in 2023.

Located near the Dallas Athletic Club and the Braeburn Glen neighborhood, this interchange is a busy spot where local traffic and high-speed highway traffic converge (https://maps.app.goo.gl/htjnuFipx8DUMfpN8).

Here’s what makes this interchange particularly hazardous:

• High-speed differentials: I-635 is a major highway with fast-moving traffic, while Ferguson Rd. handles more local traffic patterns. The need to adjust speeds quickly can lead to errors in judgment.
• Merging and exiting challenges: Drivers entering or exiting I-635 at Ferguson Rd. need to match the speed of highway traffic and make precision maneuvers, which can be challenging, especially during heavy traffic periods.
• Potential for congestion: The high volume of traffic at this interchange, particularly during peak commuting hours, can create bottlenecks and unpredictable situations.

Common negligence at this interchange includes:

• Unsafe lane changes: Drivers weaving across multiple lanes or making sudden lane changes at highway speeds increase the risk of collisions.
• Misjudging merging speeds: Not accelerating quickly enough when entering I-635 or misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic when exiting can easily lead to accidents.
• Tailgating: The high speeds on I-635 increase the danger of rear-end collisions if drivers are following too closely.

Typical accidents here are likely to include:

• Sideswipes: Improper lane changes and merging errors are common causes of sideswipes at this interchange.
• Rear-end crashes: Sudden stops, tailgating, or misjudging the need to slow down for exiting traffic can cause rear-end accidents.
• Potentially severe accidents: Given the higher speeds on I-635, accidents at this interchange have a greater potential for causing significant injuries and damage.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Exercise extreme caution when approaching this interchange and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic flow.
• Use designated lanes for entering and exiting the highway, and signal all lane changes well in advance.
• Maintain a safe following distance, especially considering the higher speeds on I-635.
• If possible, avoid traveling through this interchange during peak rush hour traffic to reduce the risk of congestion-related accidents.

1. TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) & E. Buckingham Rd.: Garland’s Most Dangerous Intersection

In 2023, TX-78 (Lavon Dr.) & E. Buckingham Rd. claimed the unfortunate title of Garland’s most dangerous intersection, with a staggering 51 car accidents.

It’s a busy location, including the Northeast Garland Neighborhood, Bradfield Park, and Williams Stadium. This mix of residential, recreational, and stadium traffic creates a complex and high-volume traffic environment.

Why is this the top spot for accidents?

• Heavy and varied traffic volume: Residents, stadium-goers, and park visitors create a massive influx of vehicles, especially during events or peak recreational hours.
• Potential distractions galore: The park, stadium activities, and even neighborhood life can draw a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving safely.
• Unexpected traffic patterns: Events at the stadium can cause sudden surges of traffic, unexpected congestion, and unpredictable driving behaviors.

Common forms of negligence around this intersection likely include:

• Aggressive driving: The sheer volume of traffic and potential for delays, especially during stadium events, might lead to frustration and aggressive driving behaviors.
• Speeding: Drivers could exceed the speed limit in residential zones near the intersection or misjudge appropriate speeds on TX-78 (Lavon Dr.).
• Distracted driving: The multitude of potential distractions around the park, stadium, and neighborhood increase the risks for distracted driving.

This intersection could see a wide range of accidents, including:

• Minor fender benders: Congestion and quick maneuvering caused by traffic volume could lead to minor collisions.
• Serious crashes: The potential for higher speeds, along with distracted or aggressive driving, increases the risk of more significant accidents with injuries.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Be hyper-vigilant: This intersection demands your full attention. Scan constantly for pedestrians, changing traffic patterns, and other hazards.
• Obey the speed limit: Strictly follow the posted speed limits, especially approaching the residential and park areas.
• Avoid distractions: Keep your phone out of sight and your focus on the road, anticipating the potential for unexpected actions by other drivers or pedestrians.
• Plan ahead for events: If attending an event at Williams Stadium, allow extra travel time, anticipate delays, and consider alternate routes if possible.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Garland Car Crash

If you’ve been injured in a car accident at any of these dangerous Garland intersections – or anywhere else in the city – it’s crucial to seek legal guidance.

An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, thoroughly investigate your accident, and fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. Here’s how they can help:

• Gathering evidence: Your lawyer can collect essential evidence like police reports, witness statements, medical records, and more to strengthen your claim.
• Calculating damages: An attorney can accurately assess the total extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, and even the pain and suffering you’ve endured.
• Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies aim to pay out as little as possible. A car accident lawyer in Garland can negotiate skillfully on your behalf to fight for a fair settlement.
• Taking your case to court: If the insurance company refuses to cooperate, a strong car accident lawyer will be prepared to advocate for your rights in court.