3.03.2009

America's Worst Intersections


The bottlenecks in these 100 cities will slow you down the most

Since I never am down this way (169 at Hwy 494) it was a surprise to me. I do know that 494 through Bloomington is a madhouse most the day.

2 comments:

  1. Is it me, or just my over active imagination? I live in a large metropolitan area and lately I'm almost starting to think traffic is actually getting better. And of course the reason for this, if it's true, is the economy. So many people are out of work or working less that traffic isn't as bad as it usually is....................By the way, this may be a totally off base observation. It could very well be that I've gotten lucky the past couple of weeks and by dumb luck no one has had an accident when I went to and from work.

    Anyone else notice this, or it is just me?

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  2. I have noticed it a bit recently.
    I know Phoenix made that list one year and it was right next to my parents house. I actually rear-ended a car at the intersection.
    I know one thing that has helped Phoenix tremendously is their use of red light cameras. Basically, they take pictures of people running lights. (we sure could use those in the cities) They also employ mobile unmanned speed detectors, basically a van with a speed detector and camera. As well, they use stationary speed detectors. I am not a fan of the mobile ones, as I have almost been in a few accidents because of them. Imagine driving and then someone ahead of you slamming on their breaks as a reflex when they see it. But I think they work out alright.

    Oh, another thing Phoenix has done well is having a standard for their lights. For the most part the lights go left turn first (both directions), then straight (both directions). They also time most of the lights. (Peoria, AZ I think was the first to do it in Phoenix) Basically, the actual speed limit is 45, but they time the lights for 40 and put up signs that say if you travel 40 you will not hit a red light.

    Also, one thing the midwest needs to do better is parking lots. The midwest in general has horrible parking lot design. I know of one Walmart that has only two entrances/exits. (the one near my parents in Phx has about 15!!!) Not to mention, the layout of the lots are horrible.

    One last thing about the cities, the drivers are horrible. They are both defensive and aggressive. So you never know what to expect. At least in Phx, for the most part, they are all aggressive, so you know what they will do. I think that causes a lot of accidents here.

    Sorry, that was a little rant about road and driving conditions I think cause issues.

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