Common Areas for Car Accidents in Gulfport
Certain roads in Gulfport, Mississippi, are notorious for their high number of crashes. Let’s take a closer look at accident hotspots and why high incidences of car accidents occur in them:
Route 49
U.S. Route 49 provides access to Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, so traffic congestion and car crashes are frequent along this road. The highway also intersects with other major roadways, including the intersection with Interstate 10 near the Gulfport Premium Outlets, significantly increasing vehicle flow from both local and through traffic. Impatient drivers on U.S. 49 often engage in tailgating and abrupt lane changes that lead to rear-end collisions and side-impact collisions.
Interstate 10
Interstate 10 is one of the busiest highways in the U.S. In Biloxi, I-10 runs close to the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport and intersects with U.S. Route 49 near the Gulfport Premium Outlets. The road’s extensive use by commercial vehicles and commuters, combined with frequent entries and exits, contributes to a high occurrence of multi-vehicle collisions. Speeding and aggressive driving exacerbate these conditions, making I-10 a hotspot for crashes in Gulfport.
Highway 605
Mississippi Highway 605 is another common site for crashes in Gulfport, especially where the highway approaches the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The area around the college sees an influx of young drivers and pedestrian activity, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Sharp curves and limited traffic controls further complicate driving conditions, particularly for those unfamiliar with the road.
Route 90
U.S. Route 90 provides beautiful scenic drives along Gulfport Beach and is a main artery to historic shopping districts, attracting tourists and local traffic. The combination of leisurely drives with frequent stops for beach and commercial access points leads to a high rate of rear-end and side-swipe accidents. Holiday traffic and regular events in the area amplify congestion, increasing the risk of collisions during these periods.
Safety Tips for Drivers in These Areas
Following certain driving safety tips can reduce your risk of being in an auto accident in Gulfport. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
Stay Alert
Keep your attention on the road, especially when driving near the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, Gulfport Premium Outlets, and along Gulfport Beach, where pedestrian traffic is high. These areas attract a lot of vehicles and foot traffic, increasing the likelihood of motor vehicle crashes. Always anticipate sudden stops and watch for pedestrians and cyclists in these busy zones.
Observe Speed Limits
Always stick to the designated speed limits, especially on highways such as Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 49, where speed-related crashes are common. Reducing your speed helps you maintain control of your vehicle and gives you more time to react to unexpected situations, such as sudden traffic slow-downs or debris on the road.
Use Turn Signals
Make a habit of using your turn signals every time you turn or change lanes. This simple act is not only required by law but also communicates your intentions to other drivers, reducing the chances of collisions. Being predictable on the road is a key aspect of safe driving, particularly on roads with multiple lanes and heavy traffic.
Avoid Distractions
Failing to pay attention to surrounding traffic can lead to serious accidents, especially on busy highways such as I-10 and along scenic routes like U.S. Route 90. Set your GPS before you drive, and avoid texting or handling your phone. Keeping your full attention on the road is essential for spotting and avoiding potential hazards.
Finding More Information
Accidents can be overwhelming, but access to the right resources can help you manage the situation more effectively. Here are a few that you might find useful.
Gulfport Police Department
You should all the police from the scene and report the accident so they can respond to it. If you didn’t do so, you should visit the Gulfport Police Department’s website. Here, you can find guidance on how to report an accident if you didn’t do so at the scene. The site also provides essential contact details and procedures for obtaining copies of incident reports. This information is vital for filing insurance claims and pursuing legal action.
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)
You should also check out the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) website. The MDOT website also includes updates on road conditions and ongoing traffic issues, which can help you determine whether environmental factors played a role after an accident.
Need to Discuss Your Crash? Contact Our Gulfport, Mississippi, Law Firm Today
Were you involved in an accident in one of the areas mentioned above? Contact the Gulfport car accident lawyers at Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC, for a free initial consultation. We are ready to hear about your motor vehicle collision and review your legal options. Don’t wait – Call (228) 872-8752.