San Diego’s Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections

Known as “America’s Finest City,” San Diego boasts beautiful beaches and world-famous attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. Unfortunately, it is also one of California’s most congested cities. In 2022, the average San Diegan lost 54 hours to traffic. 

Deadly traffic accidents are also on the rise. Fifty deaths were reported in the San Diego region in 2023 alone. Many of these tragic deaths involve bicyclists or pedestrians. Not surprisingly, many of these accidents occur on roads with heavy traffic and highways where motorists speed. 

If you drive, bike, or walk in the city, you should know the most dangerous intersections, roads, and highways and which ones to avoid. 

Dangerous San Diego Intersections

Circulate San Diego, a local nonprofit that promotes pedestrian safety, Safe Routes to School, and other initiatives, named these 15 intersections the “Fatal 15” based on the large number of traffic accidents. 

1. Clairemont Mesa Blvd. and Doliva Dr. 
2. Rosecrans St. and Moore St.
3. University Ave. and Alabama St.
4. Federal Blvd. and Euclid Ave. 
5. Mira Mesa Blvd. and Black Mountain Rd.
6. Mira Mesa Blvd. and Aderman Ave.
7. Westview Pkwy. and Mira Mesa Blvd.
8. Palm Ave. and 16th St. 
9. Imperial Ave. and 26th St.
10. Market St. and 19th St.
11. University Ave. and 44th St.
12. University Ave. and College Ave. 
13. El Cajon Blvd. and 46th St.
14. El Cajon Blvd. and Altadena Ave.
15. El Cajon Blvd. and 60th St.

The city of San Diego has been working to improve the safety of these intersections by implementing various measures, such as installing new signs, signals, and markings, upgrading pedestrian ramps and refuges, adding bike lanes and sidewalks, and reducing speed limits. Yet, there is still more work to be done to achieve Vision Zero’s goal of eliminating all traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2025. 

More Deadly Roads and Highways in San Diego County 

According to a MoneyGeek report, these are the deadliest roads in the San Diego metro area. 

Interstate 15 from Miramar Way to Scripps Poway Parkway 

The stretch of I-15 from Miramar Way to Scripps Poway Parkway was the deadliest road in San Diego County and ranked 12th in the state for fatalities, according to MoneyGeek. Many of the reported accidents on this highway are due to excessive speeding. 

As one of the busiest interstate highways, I-15 connects major cities and regions across the western United States, from the Mexican border up to Canada. Many people traveling to and from Mexico pass through San Diego on the I-15, making it one of the most congested highways in the state.

Interstate 5 from Exit 2 to Exit 7B

This stretch of the I-5 freeway, beginning near the U.S.-Mexico border, sees some of the most motor vehicle accidents in San Diego: 

• San Ysidro Blvd to Marina Pkwy in Chula Vista

Like the I-15, many car accidents on the I-5 are caused by speeding and alcohol-impaired drivers. The highways are wide-open and straight, meaning drivers frequently rev up their engines to over 100 miles per hour. In Downtown San Diego, many accidents involve pedestrians.

Interstate 5 from Exit 17A to Exit 11A

Another particularly dangerous stretch of I-5 runs from Exit 17A (Hawthorn Street) to Exit 11A (National Avenue). This section cuts through central San Diego and includes high-traffic areas near Balboa Park, downtown, and Barrio Logan. The convergence of commuter traffic, tourist drivers unfamiliar with the area, and multiple entry and exit points contributes to a higher risk of collisions.

Factors That Contribute to Car Accidents

Are you asking yourself, “Why are there so many accidents on these roads?” Well, the answer depends on several factors. Driver negligence is the number one cause of car accidents. Additionally, unsafe road conditions can also increase the number of auto accidents.

Poor road maintenance and unsafe roads 

According to a study by the U.S. News & World Report, half of all roads in California are in poor or mediocre condition. Potholes, cracks, debris, and uneven surfaces can lead to increased loss of control or colliding with other road users. Recent flooding in San Diego has also led to more dangerous driving conditions.

과속 운전 

Motorists started driving faster during the COVID-19 pandemic and haven’t slowed since. With more cars on the road now, speeding-related car accidents have increased. The higher the speed, the greater the impact of the accident, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or death. 

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), officers have cited drivers for going 100 miles per hour on California highways and roads. 

무모한 운전

Speeding and reckless driving often go hand in hand. Reckless driving behaviors can include running red lights, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring road signs, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Alcohol Impairment

When a driver gets behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, the risk of an accident increases exponentially. Impaired driving is one of the leading causes of death, not just in San Diego County, but in the entire U.S. In recent years, the CHP has deployed officers and other personnel on certain holidays that see a spike in drunk driving accidents, like New Year’s Eve. 

Speak to a San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were a victim of a car accident at one of these dangerous roads or intersections, you may be able to recover compensation if a negligent driver or government entity caused the accident. Compensation for car accident injuries can include medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. 

An experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer can represent you if the insurance company is playing hardball or denying liability. At DK Law, we have garnered recognition as one of the top personal injury law firms in Southern California. Call our law firm today for a free consultation at (619) 752-7786.