Navigating Tampa’s bustling streets requires heightened awareness, especially at certain intersections notorious for frequent accidents. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), a crash occurs every 44 seconds in Florida, with one in seven involving distracted drivers. Additionally, over 300 people lost their lives in distracted driving crashes, an increase of 23 deaths compared to 2022. These statistics highlight the need for safer driving habits, particularly at high-risk intersections.
Furthermore, a recent data aggregation in 2025 shows that some of the most deadly US intersections are in New Jersey, Florida, and Missouri.
Based on our independent analysis of five-year crash data from 2018-2022 that we retrieved from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in our advocacy for crash victims, here’s our list of top intersections to watch out for in Tampa and Hillsborough County.
If you suffer an accident at one of these intersections (or anywhere across the state of Florida), please get in touch with the legal team at KFB Law immediately so we can help advocate for you.
1. Bruce B Downs Boulevard / East Fowler Avenue / North 30th Street
With 437 total crashes over five years and 123 involving injuries, this intersection sees heavy commuter and student traffic near the University of South Florida. On average, more than 38 million vehicles passed through annually (for a total of 190 million), making it the most crash-prone spot in Tampa.
2. Cypress Center Drive / East Front Road / I-275 / Memorial Highway / South Hoover Boulevard / West John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Handling an estimated (and whopping) 101 million vehicles per year from 2018-2022, this complex, multi-point interchange recorded 414 crashes, 120 of which caused injuries. The combination of freeway access, airport proximity, and dense commercial activity increases the risk of collisions.
3. East Dr. MLK Jr Boulevard/ I-275 / North Marguerite Street / North Taliaferro Avenue
This intersection logged 372 crashes, including 185 injury-related incidents, and saw average annual traffic volumes surpassing 66 million vehicles. It serves as a key artery between Ybor City and I-275, with frequent congestion contributing to its dangers.
4. North Street & West Lake Drive
Despite moving just over 2 million vehicles during the five-year period, this intersection saw 366 crashes with 174 injuries—an unusually high ratio.
5. East Hillsborough Avenue / I-275 / North Cherokee Avenue / North Miami Avenue / North Taliaferro Avenue
This busy corridor experienced more than 73 million vehicle crossings per year, with 358 crashes and 169 injuries reported. High-speed traffic merging with local roads can make this area especially treacherous during peak hours.
6. East Busch Boulevard / North Florida Avenue / West Busch Boulevard
Popular with both locals and tourists heading to Busch Gardens, this intersection handled 344 crashes and 114 injury incidents, with annual traffic volume just over 27 million vehicles.
7. Brandon Town Center Drive / Grand Regency Boulevard / West Brandon Boulevard
Located near a major shopping district, this intersection experienced 331 crashes and 134 involving injuries. With close to 60 million vehicles passing through yearly, the potential for frequent lane changes and turning movements can make for a consistent trouble spot.
8. East Hillsborough Avenue & North 40th Street
This intersection had 293 total crashes and 109 injury crashes, with annual traffic volume exceeding 25 million vehicles. The heavy through traffic creates a challenging environment for drivers.
9. Progress Boulevard / U.S. 301 / West Bloomingdale Avenue
Rapid development in the area has increased traffic at this intersection, which saw 292 crashes and 115 injuries last year. Nearly 160 million vehicles moved through it over the five-year analysis period, and infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with the growing demand.
10. Hillsborough Avenue / Memorial Highway / Sheldon Road
Serving a busy blend of residential and commercial traffic, this junction recorded 283 crashes, with 103 involving injuries, amid an annual traffic load of 36+ million vehicles. The wide lanes and multiple turning options leave the door open for confusion and misjudgments.
Runners Up: Other Dangerous Intersections in the Tampa Bay Area to Watch Out For
These are some intersections to also keep on your radar for hazardous traffic collision incidents.
The “Hillsborough Triangle,” a cluster of three dangerous intersections with a high number of crashes, experiences significant traffic, particularly at the intersection of Waters Avenue and Anderson Road.
U.S. 301 at Gibsonton Drive
This intersection at one point recorded 367 crashes over a 16-month period, resulting in 13 serious injuries or fatalities.
U.S. 301 at Big Bend Road
This intersection also recorded 332 collisions and 14 serious injuries or deaths over 16 months, and is notably hazardous.
Waters Avenue West & Sheldon Road Intersection
This intersection lies at the edge of what many refer to as the “Hillsborough Triangle.” With 283 reported crashes and 103 involving injuries from 2018 to 2022, the high traffic volume and mix of residential, retail, and highway access make this a consistently risky location.
Waters Avenue West & Hanley Road Intersection
This intersection is also known for frequent accidents due to heavy traffic congestion.
Common Causes of Intersection Accidents in Tampa
Car accidents in Tampa don’t just happen at dangerous intersections. If you’ve been injured due to a road defect, hazardous roadway conditions, or another driver’s negligence, KFB Law is ready to fight for you:
- Running Red Lights: Drivers entering intersections during or after a light change without ensuring it’s safe contribute significantly to accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting in-car systems divert attention from the road, increasing collision risks.
- Failure to Yield: Not giving the right of way, especially during left turns or at yield signs, often leads to accidents.
- Following Too Closely: Tailgating reduces reaction time, making rear-end collisions more likely, particularly at intersections.
- Improper Turns: Not signaling or making illegal turns can surprise other drivers, leading to collisions.
Safety Measures for Navigating Dangerous Intersections
To enhance safety at these intersections:
- Stay Alert: Minimize distractions and focus solely on driving
- Obey Traffic Signals: Adhere strictly to traffic lights and signs.
- Maintain Safe Distances: Keep a reasonable distance from the vehicle ahead to allow ample reaction time.
- Use Turn Signals: Always signal intentions well before turning.
- Be Predictable: Avoid sudden lane changes or unexpected maneuvers.
Car Accident Claims Handled by KFB Law Firm
Our firm handles a wide range of car accident claims, including:
- Head-on collisions
- Rollover accidents
- Highway crashes
- Lane change accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Drunk driving accidents
- Speeding-related crashes
- Single-vehicle accidents
- Self-driving car crashes
- And more
How KFB Law Can Assist Accident Victims
At KFB Law, we understand the profound impact an accident can have on your life. Our dedicated team offers comprehensive support to help you navigate the aftermath:
- Free Virtual Case Evaluations: We provide free virtual consultations to discuss your case without any initial financial commitment.
- Experienced Legal Representation: With over 50 years of combined experience, our attorneys are well-versed in personal injury law and committed to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
- Comprehensive Case Management: From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery.
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your well-being, maintaining open communication and providing updates throughout the legal process.
Injured at a Dangerous Intersection? KFB Law Can Help
Get a Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident at these or any other intersections in Tampa, it’s essential to seek experienced legal guidance. At KFB Law, we specialize in personal injury cases and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of your situation. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, learn your rights, and get options so you can recover fully.
