Below are some of the most dangerous intersections in each city, the common pitfalls that lead to crashes, and what drivers should do if they’re involved in one.
FARGO
13th Avenue South & 45th Street
This intersection sits in one of Fargo’s busiest commercial corridors. The combination of high traffic volume, aggressive lane changes, frequent left turns, and consistent attempts at U-turns creates ideal conditions for crashes.
Why it’s dangerous:
– High-speed approaches on 45th Street
– Drivers trying to beat yellow lights
– Vehicles turning left across multiple lanes
– Heavy pedestrian traffic between businesses
19th Avenue North & N University Drive (Near NDSU)
This area sees a mix of student traffic, cyclists, and fast-moving vehicles.
Why it’s dangerous:
– Sudden pedestrian crossings
– High student foot traffic
– Limited driver visibility during peak hours
MOORHEAD
Highway 10 & 34th Street
A major access point with large trucks entering and exiting Highway 10.
Why it’s dangerous:
– Semi-trucks with long braking distances
– Speed changes when entering/exiting the highway
– Visibility challenges caused by long lines of traffic
8th Street & 30th Avenue
Residential and commercial traffic blend here, creating confusion.
Why it’s dangerous:
– High cross-traffic
– Short light cycles
– Rear-end collisions from sudden stops
GRAND FORKS
32nd Avenue South & Columbia Road
One of the busiest intersections in the region, especially during weekends and holidays.
Why it’s dangerous:
– Heavy retail traffic
– Frequent left turns
– Speed variation—some cars stop abruptly, others accelerate to clear the intersection
Gateway Drive & North Washington Street
A high-volume corridor with fast-moving traffic.
Why it’s dangerous:
– High speeds
– Red-light running
– Large vehicles obstructing sightlines
BISMARCK
State Street & Century Avenue
A multi-lane intersection with heavy commercial traffic.
Why it’s dangerous:
– Congestion and aggressive driving
– Multi-lane left turns
– Difficulty judging gaps in oncoming traffic
Bismarck Expressway & 3rd Street
A complex area where high speeds meet heavy cross-traffic.
Why it’s dangerous:
– Drivers accelerating to merge
– Wide intersection with long crossing distances
– Frequent rear-end and T-bone collisions
Why These Intersections Are So Dangerous
A few themes appear in all four cities:
1. High Traffic Volume
2. Speed Differentials
3. Complex Lane Configurations
4. Visibility Issues
5. Distracted Driving
Each of these factors plays a critical role in crash likelihood. High traffic volume increases the number of conflict points, meaning more opportunities for driver error. Speed differentials make it difficult to predict how other vehicles will behave, especially when some drivers accelerate while others brake. Complex lane configurations require quick decision-making and can confuse unfamiliar drivers. Visibility issues (often caused by large vehicles, medians, or poor lighting) make it harder to see risks until it’s too late. Finally, distracted driving affects reaction time and awareness, compounding every other danger present at busy intersections.
How Drivers Can Avoid Common Intersection Pitfalls
1. Slow Down Approaching Yellow Lights
2. Watch for Last-Second Lane Changes
3. Make Deliberate, High-Visibility Left Turns
4. Keep Extra Distance Behind Large Vehicles
5. Avoid Distracted Driving (Even at Low Speeds)
What to Do If You’re In a Crash
1. Call 911 and request medical attention.
2. Take photos of vehicle positions, signage, damage, skid marks, and surrounding businesses.
3. Get witness information.
4. Seek prompt medical evaluation.
5. Contact a personal injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
Final Thoughts
Intersections in Fargo, Moorhead, Grand Forks, and Bismarck share the same risk profile: heavy traffic, high speeds, and complex driving environments. Staying alert, reducing speed, and anticipating other drivers’ mistakes can go a long way in preventing a crash.
If you have been injured in a car crash, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us at SW&L Attorneys by calling 701-297-2890, or emailing us at: [email protected].
This article is for informational purposes only and is subject to our disclaimer.
