10 Dangerous Intersections in Lubbock, TX for Car Accidents

March 25, 2024

In 2023, Lubbock, Texas experienced an alarming 3,231 car accidents at intersections, involving 6,551 vehicles and 9,217 people. These accidents highlight the dangers our roadways present.

This article, based on data in TXDOT’s CRIS system, explores Lubbock’s most dangerous intersections. Here’s an overview:

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

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

10. Loop 289 & Frankford Ave: A Hotspot for Auto Accidents

The intersection of Loop 289 and Frankford Avenue experienced 24 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is located in northwest Lubbock, near major retail centers and residential neighborhoods. It’s a busy area, with Loop 289 acting as a major artery and Frankford Avenue connecting to various shopping destinations.

Here’s why this intersection might be prone to accidents:

• Heavy traffic: The intersection handles traffic flow from both residential and shopping areas.
• Merging lanes: Drivers merging onto Loop 289 or exiting the highway can create potential collision points.
• Distractions: Nearby businesses and bustling activity could add to driver distraction.

Common types of negligence at this intersection could include:

• Distracted driving: Texting, adjusting the radio, or looking at businesses instead of the road.
• Failure to yield: Not yielding the right-of-way when merging or turning.
• Misjudging speeds: Underestimating the speed of oncoming traffic or merging at unsafe speeds.

Injuries at this intersection can range in severity, with potential for:

• Whiplash: From sudden stops and rear-end collisions.
• Broken bones: From more forceful impacts.
• Head injuries: Especially in T-bone collisions.

9. US Highway 82 & MLK Blvd: A High-Risk Intersection for Lubbock Drivers

US Highway 82 and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard saw 26 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is located in east Lubbock, near the Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. US Highway 82 is a major thoroughfare and often sees higher speeds.

Factors contributing to accidents here might include:

• High speeds: Drivers on US Highway 82 may travel at speeds creating greater impact in collisions.
• Confusing lanes: Multiple turn lanes and merging traffic may lead to misjudgment and confusion
• Traffic volume: This busy intersection handles significant traffic, increasing the chance of incidents.

Drivers at this intersection should be particularly cautious, as common types of negligence could involve:

• Running red lights or stop signs: Impatience or misjudging timing due to the highway speeds.
• Improper lane changes: Sudden swerves, especially when exiting US 82.
• Speeding: Traveling too fast for the conditions, increasing reaction time and impact force.

The nature of this intersection could lead to several types of accidents and injuries:

• T-bone collisions: Vehicles entering from MLK Blvd might be struck by faster-moving cars on US 82, leading to severe side impacts.
• Head-on collisions: Confusion in turn lanes or misjudging traffic could lead to head-on collisions.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops or slowing traffic on the highway could create rear-end accidents.

8. I-27 & US 84 (Slaton Rd.): Navigating a Busy Interchange

The interchange of Interstate 27 and US Highway 84 (Slaton Road) experienced 27 car accidents in 2023.

This major interchange connects traffic from both highways and sits just outside the main Lubbock city limits to the south. It includes many merging lanes and ramps, potentially causing driver confusion.

Factors making this interchange accident-prone include:

• Merging traffic: Drivers entering and exiting both highways create a dynamic traffic flow.
• High speeds: Vehicles on the interstate travel at higher speeds, increasing the severity of any impact.
• Unfamiliarity: Drivers unfamiliar with the interchange might misjudge lanes or exits.

Common types of negligence at this intersection could include:

• Unsafe lane changes: Abruptly changing lanes without proper signaling or checking blind spots.
• Tailgating: Following too closely, reducing reaction time in case of sudden stops.
• Misjudging speeds: Incorrectly gauging the speed of oncoming traffic when merging or changing lanes.

The design of this interchange could contribute to different types of accidents:

• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops or slowing traffic on the merging ramps.
• Sideswipes: Aggressive lane changes or misjudging distances while merging.
• Rollovers: Vehicles taking curves or exit ramps too fast, especially at higher speeds.

7. US 82 & Avenue Q: Lubbock’s Risky Intersection

The intersection of US Highway 82 and Avenue Q witnessed 28 car accidents in 2023.

Located in central Lubbock, this intersection is surrounded by a mix of businesses, restaurants, and the Lubbock Heart & Surgical Hospital. It’s a congested area, with drivers potentially making frequent stops and turns as they head to various destinations.

Here’s why this intersection might see higher accident rates:

• Stop-and-go traffic: Vehicles frequently stopping and starting as they turn or navigate through traffic.
• Limited visibility: Businesses and structures near the intersection might obstruct views for turning vehicles.
• Impatience: Drivers rushing to get through the intersection or make turns.

Common acts of negligence at this intersection could include:

• Running red lights: Misjudging the timing of the traffic signal or trying to rush through.
• Distracted driving: Looking at phones, adjusting the radio, or focusing on things other than the road.
• Improper turns: Turning without yielding to oncoming traffic or cutting corners too sharply.

Types of accidents likely at this intersection include:

• T-bone collisions: Vehicles entering the intersection being hit by those traveling on US 82.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops leading to cars getting rear-ended.
• Collisions with pedestrians or cyclists: Especially during busy times, given the commercial nature of the area.

6. Loop 289 & University Ave.: Challenges Near Texas Tech University

Loop 289 and University Avenue saw 29 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is a major gateway to Texas Tech University and experiences particularly heavy traffic during student move-in, sporting events at Jones AT&T Stadium, and other campus activities.

Factors that might contribute to accidents at this intersection include:

• Heavy traffic spikes: Sudden surges in traffic volume might overwhelm drivers and increase congestion.
• Distracted driving: Students, visitors, and fans focused on events or navigation rather than the road.
• Lane markings: Potential confusion with multiple lanes and turning options near campus.

Common negligent behaviors at this intersection include:

• Following too closely: Impatience in heavy traffic can lead to inadequate stopping distance.
• Unsafe lane changes: Abrupt changes to get to turns or exits for the university and stadium.
• Ignoring traffic signals: Running red lights or misjudging timing with a focus on reaching the destination.

This intersection could see several types of accidents:

• Sideswipes: From misjudging spaces while merging or changing lanes.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops in heavy traffic or entering from side streets.
• Accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists: Particularly during busy campus events.

5. Loop 289 & 50th St.: Lubbock’s Risky Intersection

The intersection of Loop 289 and 50th Street experienced 29 car accidents in 2023.

This busy intersection in south Lubbock sees a mix of commercial and residential traffic. Several major shopping centers, including the Canyon West Shopping Center, are located nearby.

Here’s why this intersection might be particularly challenging:

• Speeding on the Loop: Drivers on Loop 289 might be traveling at higher highway speeds.
• Merging traffic: Vehicles entering or exiting the Loop can create collision points.
• Limited visibility: Businesses or landscaping around exits may obstruct views.

Negligent driving behaviors at this intersection could include:

• Aggressive lane changes: Trying to maneuver quickly into or out of the exit lanes of Loop 289.
• Misjudging speeds: Incorrectly gauging the speed of traffic while turning or merging.
• Distracted driving: Focusing on nearby stores or navigation systems instead of the road.

Types of accidents that might be common here:

• Rear-end collisions: Sudden braking when exiting Loop 289 or due to turning traffic.
• Sideswipes: Aggressive lane changes or misjudging distances while merging.
• Accidents involving turning vehicles: Cars turning left across Loop 289 traffic could be struck by oncoming vehicles.

4. Loop 289 & Quaker Ave.: Challenges and Congestion

In 2023, the intersection of Loop 289 and Quaker Avenue witnessed a concerning 40 car accidents.

This major commercial corridor in southwest Lubbock is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and is near the Canyon West shopping center.

Factors contributing to accidents at this intersection could include:

• Heavy traffic: Constant flow of shoppers and commuters creates a busy environment.
• Frequent lane changes: Drivers weaving in and out of traffic to reach businesses or turn lanes.
• Turning traffic: Cars turning into or out of businesses along Quaker Ave create potential conflict points.

Common negligent behaviors at this intersection might involve:

• Distracted driving: Focusing on storefronts, navigation, or phones instead of traffic.
• Running red lights or stop signs: Trying to make it through the intersection or entering without fully stopping.
• Unsafe lane changes: Abrupt changes without signaling or misjudging the space needed.

This intersection could see a variety of accident types:

• Sideswipes: From misjudging distances while merging or changing lanes in traffic.
• T-bone collisions: Cars turning into traffic on Quaker Ave misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles.
• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops in traffic or vehicles turning into businesses without adequate warning.

3. Loop 289 & 19th St.: A Dangerous Connection

This intersection saw 44 car accidents in 2023, placing it near the top of Lubbock’s most dangerous traffic spots.

Located in central Lubbock, it sits in a high-traffic area with connections to the main medical district in the city, including Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

Potential factors contributing to these accidents include:

• High volume: Both Loop 289 and 19th Street carry significant traffic, increasing the potential for collisions.
• Merging traffic: Drivers merging onto Loop 289 or exiting may have to make quick maneuvers.
• Medical district traffic: Drivers going to or leaving the health centers might add to congestion and complex traffic patterns.

Common forms of negligence here could be:

• Distracted driving: Focusing on reaching the hospital, navigating directions, or feeling anxious about medical appointments.
• Speeding: Drivers rushing to get to the medical district or driving at unsafe speeds on Loop 289.
• Aggressive lane changes: Abrupt maneuvers to make turns or reach the correct lanes.

Accident types might include:

• Rear-end collisions: Sudden stops or slowing traffic in a busy area.
• Sideswipes: Misjudging distances while merging or changing lanes in heavy traffic.
• Pedestrian accidents: Increased risk given foot traffic to and from the medical district.

2. I-27 & US 82: Lubbock’s Complex Interchange

I-27 and US 82 experienced a troubling 54 car accidents in 2023.

This intersection is a major crossroads for travelers on both US Highway 82 and Interstate 27, located on the eastern side of Lubbock. Its design and traffic flow contribute to its potential dangers.

Factors that might lead to accidents here include:

• High speeds: Vehicles on the interstate and highway travel at elevated speeds, making collisions more severe.
• Frequent lane changes: Merging traffic and navigating the interchange require frequent lane switches.
• Complex design: The multi-level interchange with ramps and overpasses can cause confusion for some drivers.

Common negligent behaviors at this interchange could involve:

• Unsafe lane changes: Abruptly switching lanes without signaling or checking for space.
• Misjudging speeds: Incorrectly judging the speed of oncoming traffic when merging or exiting.
• Ignoring traffic signals or signs: Running red lights or misreading lane markings in the complex layout.

This interchange could see several serious accident types:

• Rollovers: Vehicles taking curves or exit ramps too fast, especially at higher speeds.
• Sideswipes: Aggressive lane changes or misjudging distances while merging.
• Multi-vehicle collisions: Chain reactions triggered by a single accident in high-speed, heavy traffic.

1. Loop 289 & Slide Ave.: Lubbock’s Most Dangerous Intersection

The intersection of Loop 289 and Slide Avenue takes the unfortunate top spot, with a concerning 60 car accidents in 2023.

Situated on the south side of Lubbock, this intersection is a hub of commercial activity and is located directly next to the South Plains Mall.

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

• Heavy traffic: Constant flow of shoppers and commuters creates a congested environment.
• Stop-and-go traffic: Lights and turning vehicles cause frequent starts and stops.
• Distractions: Drivers focused on navigating to stores or distracted by nearby signage.

Negligent driving behaviors here could include:

• Running red lights: Trying to beat a changing light or entering the intersection on a delayed turn.
• Distracted driving: Shoppers focusing more on stores or navigation than traffic signals.
• Impatience: Drivers rushing to enter or exit the shopping center, leading to risky maneuvers.

This intersection is likely to see various types of accidents:

• Rear-end collisions: Frequent stops and starts in heavy traffic create ample opportunities.
• Sideswipes: Misjudged lane changes and drivers squeezing in when turning or entering the mall area.
• T-bone collisions: Aggressive turns across oncoming Loop traffic could lead to side-impact crashes.

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

If you’ve been injured in a car accident at any of these Lubbock intersections, or elsewhere in the city, a car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve. An experienced attorney can assist with:

• Investigating the accident: Gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and determining who was at fault.
• Dealing with insurance companies: Negotiating with insurers on your behalf to get you a fair settlement.
• Filing a lawsuit: If necessary, taking your case to court to fight for your rights.