Indianapolis’ Most Dangerous Intersections and Roads
Navigating the bustling streets of Indianapolis, drivers encounter a variety of challenges that test their skills and patience. Amidst the city’s vibrant life and commuting hustle, certain intersections have gained notoriety for their complexity and the high incidence of traffic collisions they witness. These intersections are crucial spots to watch out for while driving in Indianapolis.
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, there are over 200,000 traffic accidents in Indiana every year.

If you’ve been injured in a traffic accident at any of these notorious intersections in Indianapolis, securing experienced legal representation is paramount. Doehrman Buba Ring is a law firm specializing in assisting victims of traffic accidents obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding car accident claims in Indianapolis, our team is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal support.
Contact the car accident lawyers at Doehrman Buba Ring today for a free consultation to ensure your rights are protected and to take the first step toward recovery.
38th Street
The notorious 38th Street corridor in Indianapolis demands special attention from drivers due to its precarious sections and intersections. Notably, the span between North Hawthorne Lane and Cornelius Avenue observed a distressing tally of 10 fatal crashes, with 11 lives lost between 2018 and 2020. The dangers don’t stop there. The intersection of 38th Street & Guion Road alone accounted for 32 intersection accidents in 2015, earning it the bleak title of Marion County’s most dangerous intersection for that year. Furthermore, the exchange at East 38th Street and North Keystone Avenue was the site of 52 collisions in 2020, injuring 23. Another critical junction, West 38th Street and North High School Road saw 41 crashes in the same year, resulting in 21 injuries and a fatality. This bustling area, flanked by shopping centers and eateries, requires extra vigilance from drivers to manage turns and lane changes safely.
146th Street
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has identified 146th Street as one of Hamilton County’s most hazardous roadways. Observations show that from January through September 2023, this stretch has been involved in a significant number of vehicle crashes. Specifically, seven out of the top eight crash locations were along 146th Street. During this period, over one-third of the vehicular incidents handled by the Sheriff’s Office occurred here. The intersections presenting the highest risk are 146th and Allisonville Road, 146th and Hazel Dell Parkway, and 146th and Gray Road. These findings underscore the critical need for drivers to exercise increased caution when navigating this notorious stretch.
Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue between East Murry Street and Lisa Walk Drive saw seven traffic fatalities between 2018 and 2020, reflecting the inherent dangers present on this stretch of road. This area, often bustling with local traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, demands heightened awareness from all road users. The frequent fatalities highlight a critical situation that necessitates immediate and sustained intervention from city planning and traffic management authorities.
Shadeland Avenue
Shadeland Avenue, particularly from East 21st Street to Mill View Drive, is a critical area of concern due to its high fatality rate, recording six traffic deaths within three years. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, the East 10th Street and North Shadeland Avenue intersection experienced 40 crashes in 2020 alone, leading to 16 injuries. This bustling corridor, filled with commercial activity, underscores the urgent need for enhanced vigilance by drivers and pedestrians alike. These alarming statistics highlight the essential need for immediate safety measures and improvements by city planning and traffic management to safeguard all road users.
East 21st Street
East 21st Street stands out due to its notable safety concerns. Between 2018 and 2020, this area witnessed six fatal accidents, underlining the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. At the intersection of East 21st Street and North Shadeland Avenue, there were 38 crashes in 2020 alone, with 19 individuals injured. Although there were no fatalities at this specific intersection, the high number of incidents and injuries highlights the complexity and danger of navigating this area. Both drivers and pedestrians are urged to proceed with heightened caution, particularly during turns and lane changes, to avoid accidents.
East 30th Street
East 30th Street, stretching from Bavarian Drive to North Bolton Avenue, has proven to be a hazardous area for travelers. In the period between 2018 and 2020, this section witnessed the tragic loss of five individuals due to traffic accidents. This alarming statistic underscores the need for both heightened vigilance and strategic safety measures in this corridor to prevent future tragedies.
East Washington Street and North Post Road
The intersection of East Washington Street and North Post Road stands as a critical point of concern for drivers in Indianapolis. In 2020 alone, this bustling junction was the site of 39 crashes, which resulted in 18 injuries and one heartbreaking fatality. Its proximity to a major shopping center adds to the traffic volume, especially on weekends and during the holiday shopping season, exacerbating the potential for accidents. The complexity of navigating this intersection is further heightened by the need for drivers to make cautious left turns, often in heavy traffic.
What Causes Car Accidents?
Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from the road, such as texting, eating, and using in-car technologies.

Speeding: Exceeding speed limits significantly increases the risk of accidents and the severity of impact.
Driving Under the Influence: The use of alcohol, drugs, or medications that impair cognitive and motor functions leads to dangerous driving conditions.
Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors on the road, including rapid lane changes without signaling, tailgating, and disobeying traffic signs.
Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, ice, and fog, can significantly decrease visibility and road traction.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Failing to observe traffic signals and signs is a common cause of intersection collisions.
Failure to Yield the Right of Way: Confusion or disregard for yielding rules, especially at intersections and lane merges, can lead to accidents.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven road surfaces, and lack of proper signage can contribute to car accidents.
Driver Fatigue: Drowsiness greatly reduces a driver’s awareness and reaction time, increasing the chance of accidents.
Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperience can lead to misjudgments in traffic situations, often resulting in crashes.
No matter the cause, car accidents can cause serious injury to individuals and significant property damage. Therefore, it is essential for all drivers to follow traffic laws, remain vigilant on the road, and prioritize safety for themselves and others.
Injured in a Car Accident? Doehrman Buba Ring Can Help
In light of the daunting statistics and the myriad causes of vehicular accidents detailed above, it’s clear that navigating the roads safely demands not only individual responsibility but also a collective effort toward improving driving conditions and awareness. If you find yourself the victim of a car accident, it is crucial to know that you’re not alone and that there are resources available to support you through the aftermath. Our dedicated team at Doehrman Buba Ring is committed to assisting you in various capacities, including:
- Comprehensive legal representation
- Negotiation with insurance companies
- Collection and analysis of accident reports
- Personalized support and guidance through the claim process
- Advocacy for rightful compensation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyers can provide the professional help you need during this challenging time. Contact us today to secure the support and expertise necessary to navigate the aftermath of a car accident with confidence.