Every day, thousands of drivers travel through Arlington’s busiest intersections, rarely considering how dangerous some crossings can be—especially when trucks are involved. The mix of heavy local traffic, major highway corridors, and rapid commercial growth creates unique hazards at specific locations in our city. At Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, we have watched how truck collisions at accident-prone intersections disrupt lives, create confusion, and leave families or businesses searching for answers. We want to help you understand where these high-risk intersections are, why truck accidents happen there, and what you can do if you are affected by a dangerous truck intersection in Arlington.
Contact our trusted personal injury lawyer in Arlington at (817) 587-6452 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Why Are Certain Intersections in Arlington So Dangerous for Truck Accidents?
Several intersections in Arlington present unique challenges for both commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. The design and layout of many streets, the sheer volume of vehicles passing through, and nearby warehouses or retail centers all add risk elements. Intersections close to distribution hubs or industrial parks create constant movement of semi-trucks and large delivery vehicles, often during late-night or early morning hours when drivers may be less alert. Navigating wide turns and long stopping distances puts extra pressure on truck operators, while compact intersections make it harder for everyone to react safely.
Traffic engineering missteps at Arlington’s busiest crossings also contribute to a higher rate of truck collisions. Many hotspots lack proper signage or have unclear lane markings, forcing trucks to encroach on other lanes while turning or stopping. Locations with short signal cycles, widely spaced crosswalks, or confusing merge points make it easy for trucks and cars to misjudge each other’s intentions. When on-ramps and exit lanes meet local roadways, merging vehicles challenge even experienced drivers, multiplying the chance of crashes.
Arlington’s geography and infrastructure amplify these issues. Major highways like I-20, State Highway 360, and U.S. Route 287 channel a steady stream of commercial traffic through vital economic areas. When those routes intersect with residential streets or commuter corridors, congestion often spikes. Poorly lit areas, obscured signs, or overgrown vegetation can dramatically limit visibility, making even routine maneuvers risky for trucks and cars alike.
Which Truck Accident Intersections in Arlington Have the Highest Crash Rates?
Traffic data and safety reports from the Texas Department of Transportation highlight several intersections as high-risk for truck collisions. Among them, South Cooper Street at I-20, Collins Street at I-30, and Matlock Road at both Pioneer Parkway and I-20 consistently rank among the most dangerous truck intersections in Arlington. These spots stand out for frequent congestion, nearby commercial development, and heavy truck movement throughout the day.
The intersection at South Cooper Street and I-20 experiences near-constant truck and car traffic. Fast highway exits, frequent left turns, and short light cycles lead to a high risk of rear-end and broadside collisions. Collins Street and I-30 create a similar risk zone with big box retailers and large service plazas drawing regional truck routes. Matlock Road at Pioneer Parkway and I-20 serves the city’s bustling warehouse and logistics zone, resulting in frequent starting and stopping, tight sightlines near ramps, and complex merging—key conditions for underride crashes and pileups.
Each of these intersections presents specific hazards that increase the risk of truck-related accidents. Short on-ramps, abrupt lane shifts, missing markings, and inadequate traffic control measures all aggravate safety issues. By understanding which intersections experience more truck crashes—and why—drivers and trucking companies can improve awareness and make smarter travel choices across Arlington’s streets.
What Makes Trucks More Prone to Crashes at These Locations?
Truck drivers face challenges unique to their vehicles at Arlington’s busiest intersections. Tractor-trailers have large blind spots on all sides, making it difficult to see cars and motorcycles in adjacent lanes. When trucks make wide right or left turns, they may temporarily cross multiple lanes and risk colliding with vehicles that underestimate the turn radius or try to squeeze past. Sudden stops or rapid acceleration in congested areas present additional hazards for drivers who may not be able to react in time to the size or weight of an oncoming truck.
The disproportionate stopping distances required for trucks further increase danger at high-traffic intersections. A loaded 18-wheeler traveling at suburban speeds needs significantly more road length to come to a complete stop compared to a passenger car. When signals change suddenly or vehicles cut into their lane, truck drivers have far less time to react. This frequently leads to rear-end collisions, especially in areas with stop-and-go traffic or short green lights.
Truck-involved accidents are also affected by the diversity of vehicles found at these intersections. With delivery vans, shuttle buses, and family cars mixing alongside tractor-trailers, unpredictable lane changes and sudden braking become everyday events. Fatigue caused by long shifts or tight schedules can further increase errors by truck drivers, while less experienced passenger vehicle drivers may not appreciate how much room large vehicles require to operate safely. These factors together mean even careful planning and safe driving can't always prevent every dangerous situation.
How Do Time of Day & Conditions Increase Truck Accident Risks in Arlington?
Truck accident risks at Arlington’s major intersections spike during certain times of day and under specific traffic or weather conditions. The morning and evening rush hours see the highest collision rates as commuters, commercial vehicles, and school traffic converge. During these windows, hurried driving, frequent lane changes, and long lines at stoplights crowd intersections, creating more opportunities for accidents involving trucks.
Poor weather and limited visibility make these problem intersections even more hazardous. Early morning fog, heavy rain, or low light at dawn and dusk reduce the time drivers have to notice and react to large trucks entering or exiting intersections. Poorly illuminated roads are especially risky—burned-out signals or hidden traffic signs leave less room for error, and trucks carrying loads without bright reflective markers become almost invisible during bad weather or at night.
Holidays, weekends, and local events introduce unfamiliar drivers and abnormal traffic patterns at these intersections. During large events, such as sports games or festivals, traffic detours, distracted drivers, and out-of-town trucks raise the chances of confusion and last-minute lane weaving—two frequent contributors to multi-vehicle collisions. Truck drivers not used to Arlington’s most dangerous intersections also rely heavily on GPS, which sometimes suggests unsafe routes or left turns across oncoming lanes, adding to the challenge.
What Are the Best Safety Tips for Avoiding Truck Accidents at High-Risk Intersections?
Both passenger vehicle drivers and truck operators can reduce crash risks at Arlington’s hazardous intersections with practical, safety-focused strategies. For drivers of cars and motorcycles, the most important rule is to avoid blind spots—never linger beside or just behind a large truck, especially near stoplights or while waiting to turn. Giving trucks more space for wide turns or abrupt stops significantly reduces the likelihood of side-swipe or underride accidents.
Commercial trucking companies & operators should prioritize detailed route planning, using current traffic data to avoid known congestion hotspots and high-risk times of day whenever possible. Ensuring their vehicles are well-maintained—brakes, turn signals, lights, and reflective tape—increases visibility and maneuverability at complex intersections. When approaching busy crossings, truck drivers benefit from reducing speed, double-checking mirrors, and signaling well in advance to alert other motorists of their intentions.
Advocating for improved traffic control measures benefits all road users. Calling for longer traffic signal cycles, clearer truck turn lanes, and better signage at dangerous intersections not only helps truckers navigate safely but also boosts the safety of the entire community. Investments in road lighting, traffic cameras, and real-time monitoring are additional steps Arlington authorities and residents can take to prevent future accidents.
- Avoid truck blind spots—ensure you can see the driver’s mirrors.
- Give wide berth to turning or merging trucks—never cut too close.
- Watch for sudden stops; anticipate longer stopping distances for heavy vehicles.
- Do not attempt to overtake trucks at or near busy intersections.
- Report inadequate lights, signage, or road conditions to local authorities for faster corrections.
What Steps Should You Take After a Truck Accident at a Dangerous Intersection?
If you’re involved in a truck accident at one of Arlington’s dangerous intersections, your health and safety come first. Move vehicles to a safe area if possible and call 911 for emergency help. Immediate medical attention is critical—even when injuries aren’t obvious—because issues like internal trauma or whiplash may develop hours after a collision. First responders will also create an official accident report, a vital document for both insurance claims and any legal proceedings.
As soon as the scene is safe, start gathering detailed evidence. Use your phone to take photos of the overall intersection, any vehicle damage, road debris, skid marks, and injuries. Get the contact information for all drivers, passengers, witnesses, and note the truck’s company details, license plate, and Department of Transportation registration number. Proper documentation is essential in truck accident cases since responsibility may involve multiple parties—including the driver, their employer, and equipment companies.
Contact your insurance company to notify them of the collision, but be cautious with recorded statements. Commercial trucking insurance adjusters may reach out quickly, but you are not required to accept an initial offer or make detailed statements before seeking legal advice. Connecting with a firm like Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz early in the process helps you understand your rights, review evidence, and prepare for negotiations with insurers or responsible parties. Clear, professional legal guidance can relieve much of the confusion and stress after a serious truck accident.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured or if traffic is blocked.
- Document the scene with photos and written notes.
- Exchange contact and insurance details with other parties and witnesses.
- Notify your insurance promptly, but speak carefully about accident details.
- Consult a knowledgeable attorney about your specific case and options.
How Does Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz Support Those Hurt in Truck Accidents at Arlington’s Most Dangerous Intersections?
At Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, our team brings more than a century of combined legal experience to support Arlington’s residents, drivers, and businesses following serious truck accidents. Our attorneys analyze intersection-specific crash details, work directly with insurance providers, and clarify legal processes for clients. Because our firm has served Arlington and Fort Worth for decades, we have valuable insight into how local laws, road systems, & unique commercial traffic patterns influence the outcome of truck accident cases.
We focus on communication—keeping you informed at every stage, always in clear language. Our team speaks multiple languages, helping Arlington’s diverse community get answers and support without barriers. For each case, we review accident reports, identify possible lines of liability, coordinate with medical providers, and guide clients on key deadlines or risks. Our accessibility and responsiveness have earned us recognition from respected organizations within the legal community.
We keep up-to-date with safety initiatives, commercial vehicle regulations, and changes in local traffic law to offer well-rounded, practical advice. When you reach out for guidance after a collision at one of Arlington’s highest-risk intersections, we aim to provide tailored support, resources, and advocacy to help you make informed decisions about your next steps.
Where Can You Stay Updated on Truck Accident News & Intersection Safety in Arlington?
Staying informed about dangerous truck intersections in Arlington, city-wide crash data, and road safety notices can help protect yourself and your family. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) offers access to up-to-date traffic data and safety recommendations for trucks and large vehicles. Their Crash Records Information System provides searchable reports by location and accident type, allowing drivers to track risks in real time and make smarter route choices.
The City of Arlington regularly updates residents on traffic projects, intersection improvements, and accident alerts on its official website and via local news. Subscribing to traffic alert services or downloading real-time road condition apps ensures you’re among the first to know about unexpected hazards, construction delays, or traffic pattern changes that could affect dangerous intersections in Arlington. Commercial drivers especially benefit from these resources, letting them plan daily routes and avoid problems before they arise.
National organizations—including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) & the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)—publish trucking safety tips, regulatory updates, and accident prevention strategies. Many of these agencies offer free newsletters and alerts to drivers, fleet managers, and community members. Using these resources, you can stay proactive about your own safety while helping friends, family, or coworkers avoid high-risk situations on Arlington’s roads.
If a truck accident at a dangerous Arlington intersection has affected you or someone you know, taking informed, timely steps is vital. Reach out to Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz at (817) 587-6452 to discuss your situation and learn how our experience and commitment to responsive service can guide you toward clarity and resolution.