Riding in Glendale: The Most Dangerous Intersections for Motorcyclists

Glendale is a nice town for motorcyclists, with plenty of freeway access and wide roadways. Unfortunately, those same freeways and roads are the locations of some serious accidents. Although the city of Glendale recently began upgrading the most dangerous locations, motorcycle riders need to be extra careful when they ride in these trouble spots.

High Volume, High Risk

Major intersections are hazardous for everyone no matter what type of vehicle they drive. Cars are going in every direction, drivers are looking left while going right, and pedestrians are running through crosswalks. The city survey of trouble spots found that these are some of the highest-risk intersections in Glendale:

• Brand Blvd. and Sanchez Dr.

• Brand Blvd. and Goode Ave.

• Colorado St. and Brand Blvd.

• Glenoaks Blvd. and Western Ave.

• Glendale Ave. and Wilson Ave.

These intersections have a few things in common. Several are on- or off-ramps to the Ventura Freeway. Brand and Colorado have a high density of shopping centers, meaning there is always traffic along the road, and drivers trying to turn into parking lots. The city’s ambitious upgrades mean there is heavy construction in the area, and that means more congestion and traffic.

What This Means for Riders

Motorcycle riders are at a disadvantage in heavy traffic. The lower profile of motorcycles makes them difficult to see. Drivers aren’t expecting motorcycles, so they may not see a rider when they’re in the intersection making a left turn.

Lane-splitting, riding between two lanes of traffic, is legal in California. It can be safe if done in a careful manner, even on surface streets. However, riders should take care when doing so because drivers are more likely to swerve or change lanes without warning.

Although it is illegal for drivers to open their doors or intentionally impede lane-splitting riders, that doesn’t prevent it from happening. Riders should be especially cautious in high-traffic intersections, where drivers may make abrupt left turns to beat the light.

Staying Safe While Riding

The same rules of safe riding apply at dangerous intersections as anywhere else on the road. Ride defensively. Never pass or lane split on the right. On surface streets, avoid riding in drivers’ blind spots, especially those of large trucks. On surface streets, watch out for delivery vans and panel trucks.

While the city of Glendale is upgrading its dangerous intersections, pay attention to construction zones and detour signs. Construction zones pose additional hazards for motorcycle riders, so consider alternate routes around construction areas when possible. Never ride through a construction area. If you can, avoid riding on the shoulder or berm surrounding the construction zone, as these areas can be treacherous for motorcycles.

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need legal assistance from a motorcycle attorney like those at the Brand Law Group. We will review your case and give you our best legal advice following your accident. The Brand Law Group wants to see you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case.