Over 1,200 Daily Hours Lost Waiting at Popular Santa Clarita Intersection
According to a new study, Santa Clarita is home to the worst intersection in the state. Stop lights throughout Southern California are notoriously long, leading to aggravated drivers. In order to avoid preventable accidents, it is important to practice defensive driving, remain calm, and avoid distractions while waiting at (even the longest) red lights.
Often, frustrated drivers make reckless decisions leading to devastating accidents and injuries. At Injured 661, we offer dedicated representation for car accident victims throughout the area. If you are involved in a car accident at a Santa Clarita intersection, contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free consultation.
Long Delays, Frustrated Drivers
A new study reported on by Patch.com shows that drivers in Californians spend a combined 2.7 million hours waiting at red lights each day. To make matters worse, the time of day with the most delays is in the middle of Friday’s afternoon commute from 4:30 to 5:30 pm.
According to an analysis by INRIX, on average, drivers spend 45 seconds waiting for a light to change. Californians spend more time waiting at red lights compared to most other drivers across the country. A typical trip in the state took 16.5 minutes, with nearly 10% of that spent waiting at a signal.
Worst County to Drive Through?
What may be surprising to some Santa Clarita drivers is that Orange County was ranked the worst county in California to drive through with 122.3 hours of delay each day. The county ranked 6th highest in the nation.
Worst Intersections?
Unsurpring, however, is the fact that two of the worst intersections in the state were in Santa Clarita. Leading the pack was the intersection at Newhall Ranch Road and Bouquet Canyon Road. The intersection earned its place with 1,260 daily hours lost to delays.
In 5th place was the intersection at Valencia Boulevard and Bouquet Canyon Road. An estimated 1006 daily hours are lost at this traffic signal. All of the other top ten “worst intersections” were located throughout Southern California including four in Orange County.
Staying Safe on Congested Roadways
At Injured 661, we know how frustrating the intersections are in Santa Clarita. We live and work in the community. Long delays can be especially frustrating when you are in a hurry. Unfortunately, agitated drivers can make impulsive decisions leading to serious car accidents.
If you are delayed at an intersection remember to:
- Put away your cell phone. Distracted driving is a leading cause of injuries and death.
- Pay attention to others. Impatient drivers may run red lights or take other reckless actions.
- Avoid following too closely. Many fender benders can be prevented by giving enough space to the vehicle in front of you.
- Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists. Fatal pedestrian and bicycle accidents often happen at intersections, look out for people who may be crossing.
- Take a deep breath and arrive safely to your destination.
It is unlikely that the length of a traffic signal is going to change any time soon. If you find yourself always in a rush, consider leaving a few minutes earlier to avoid being late. In the event that you are involved in an accident, contact our office to discuss your legal options.
Injured at a Santa Clarita Intersection? Contact Injured 661 Today!
Were you or a loved one injured in a car accident at a Santa Clarita intersection? Contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team can help you get the compensation you deserve if you are injured due to someone else’s recklessness or wrongdoing. Call today to get started.
