Arizona’s Deadly Intersections: The Top 5 Most Dangerous Spots in the West

By Matthew Holloway |

Arizona Senator David Farnsworth is spotlighting alarming data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The report identifies five of the deadliest intersections in the western United States, all situated in Maricopa County. Research spanning 18 years shows that from 2004 to 2022, over 35,000 fatalities linked to car accidents happened at these intersections, averaging about 2,000 deaths per year, according to analysis by Sam Aguiar Injury Lawyers.

The analysis indicates a significant rise in fatalities at these intersections, with related crashes having doubled during the study’s timeframe.

Farnsworth commented on the state of Arizona’s roads, stating, “Far too many of Arizona’s roadways are filled with potholes, bumps, cracks, loose gravel, or other unstable surfaces. Some may not have adequate lighting, others may not have appropriate signage or traffic signals.”

This morning, an AZDPS sergeant conducted a commercial vehicle inspection on SR 347 in Maricopa when his unoccupied patrol truck, equipped with emergency and hazard lights, was struck by a passing vehicle. Fortunately, both the sergeant and the commercial vehicle driver emerged unharmed.

Addressing the ongoing safety concerns, Farnsworth added, “These treacherous conditions are contributing to a hazardous commute for drivers. We must make improvements to create a safer environment for drivers traveling through notoriously deadly intersections within our state. Whether that’s adding traffic lights, lanes, or improving road surfaces, it is paramount we don’t ignore our deteriorating transportation system.” He emphasized the necessity of securing funding reforms for road improvements, stating, “Arizonans’ lives and livelihoods depend on it.”

Among the intersections identified as particularly dangerous, two are located on SR-347, the primary route to Maricopa, AZ.

Maricopa Mayor Nancy Smith echoed Farnsworth’s concerns, stating, “The safety of our residents is our top priority, and many of our state highways require urgent upgrades. A prime example is SR 347, which links the City of Maricopa to the Greater Phoenix area. This critical route is in dire need of expansion and safety enhancements. I am grateful that Senator Farnsworth is dedicated to exploring innovative solutions to address this vital issue.”

The report details the five hazardous intersections in Maricopa County: Broadway Road and SR-85 (Oglesby Rd), 59th Ave and Indian School Rd, Hazen Rd and SR-85 (Oglesby Rd), Maricopa Rd and SR-347 (N John Wayne Pkwy), and Riggs Rd and SR-347 (N John Wayne Pkwy).

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.