50 Dangerous U.S. Neighborhoods Tourists Should Avoid

When you're visiting a new city, it's easy to assume that all neighborhoods are equally safe—but that's not the case. Crime tends to concentrate in specific pockets, and knowing where those areas are can help you stay out of trouble while traveling.

This guide from Blog.BadIntersections.com identifies 50 U.S. cities with neighborhoods travelers should avoid, especially after dark. We’ve included crime statistics, local insight, and practical travel tips to help you navigate unfamiliar ground safely.

Why Certain Neighborhoods Are Riskier

Crime isn’t randomly distributed. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, over 50% of urban violent crime occurs in just 5% of city blocks. Neighborhoods with high poverty, gang activity, or inadequate policing often see higher rates of assault, robbery, and homicide.

For travelers, even a brief detour into the wrong area can result in car break-ins, scams, or worse. That’s why we compiled this list using FBI data, local crime reports, and real traveler reviews.

The 50 Worst Neighborhoods for Tourists to Avoid in the U.S.

🔴 1–10: High-Crime Zones in America’s Biggest Cities

1. Chicago, IL – West Garfield Park, Englewood, South Shore

   West Garfield Park has 131.8 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, the city’s highest.

2. Los Angeles, CA – Skid Row, South LA, Watts

   Skid Row is home to 4,400+ unhoused individuals and widespread open-air drug use.

3. San Francisco, CA – Tenderloin, Civic Center

   Drug overdoses here are 10× the city average.

4. New York City, NY – Brownsville (Brooklyn), South Bronx

   Brownsville has some of NYC’s highest shooting rates.

5. Philadelphia, PA – Kensington, North Philly

   Kensington is the epicenter of the fentanyl crisis.

6. Baltimore, MD – Sandtown-Winchester, Cherry Hill

   Over 300 murders citywide in 2023, many concentrated here.

7. Detroit, MI – Warrendale, Brightmoor, Dexter-Linwood

   Detroit’s violent crime rate is 2.5× the national average.

8. St. Louis, MO – Wells-Goodfellow, College Hill

   Ranked #1 for murders per capita in the U.S.

9. New Orleans, LA – Central City, 7th Ward

   Homicides in 2023 rose by 20% in these neighborhoods.

10. Atlanta, GA – Bankhead, Vine City

Gun violence in Bankhead is consistently among the city’s worst.

🟠 11–30: Cities with Surging Crime Clusters

1. Cleveland, OH – Glenville, Kinsman

2. Washington, DC – Anacostia, Trinidad

3. Milwaukee, WI – Metcalfe Park, Amani

4. Memphis, TN – Frayser, Orange Mound

5. Oakland, CA – East Oakland, Acorn

6. Houston, TX – Sunnyside, Acres Homes

7. Dallas, TX – South Dallas, Pleasant Grove

8. Indianapolis, IN – Haughville, Near Eastside

9. Kansas City, MO – East Side, Ivanhoe

10. Cincinnati, OH – Avondale, West End

11. Miami, FL – Overtown, Liberty City

12. Orlando, FL – Parramore, Washington Shores

13. Tampa, FL – East Tampa, Sulphur Springs

14. Las Vegas, NV – Naked City, North Las Vegas (some parts)

15. Phoenix, AZ – Maryvale, South Phoenix

16. San Antonio, TX – Denver Heights, Eastwood Village

17. Fresno, CA – Edison, Central Fresno

18. Sacramento, CA – Oak Park, Del Paso Heights

19. Albuquerque, NM – International District, Trumbull

20. Birmingham, AL – Ensley, North Birmingham

🟡 31–50: Underrated But Risky

1. Anchorage, AK – Mountain View, Spenard

2. Jackson, MS – Washington Addition, West Jackson

3. Rochester, NY – Lyell-Otis, Upper Falls

4. Buffalo, NY – Broadway-Fillmore, East Side

5. Bridgeport, CT – East End, Hollow

6. Hartford, CT – Clay-Arsenal, North End

7. Springfield, MA – Mason Square, Liberty Heights

8. Wilmington, DE – Southbridge, West Center City

9. Camden, NJ – Whitman Park, Waterfront South

10. Paterson, NJ – 4th Ward, South Paterson

11. Newark, NJ – South Ward, Central Ward

12. Stockton, CA – Airport Way, South Stockton

13. Lansing, MI – Northwest Lansing, Knollwood

14. Toledo, OH – Junction, North End

15. Flint, MI – North Flint, Civic Park

16. Charleston, SC – North Charleston (some areas)

17. Columbia, SC – Farrow Hills, North Columbia

18. Little Rock, AR – Southwest Little Rock, East End

19. Oklahoma City, OK – Spencer, NE 23rd St Corridor

20. Tulsa, OK – North Tulsa, Turley

How to Stay Safe in an Unfamiliar City

Traveling smart can make all the difference. Use these pro tips:

• Check crime maps before booking lodging.

• Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas.

• Use rideshare apps instead of public transit late at night.

• Blend in. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or carry expensive gear visibly.

• Ask locals (hotel staff, Uber drivers) where not to go.

Final Thoughts

While no city is entirely safe or unsafe, knowing which neighborhoods to avoid can prevent theft, scams, and dangerous encounters. These 50 U.S. cities all have great attractions—but also pockets where caution is critical.

At Blog.BadIntersections.com, we help travelers navigate America’s most dangerous streets and intersections—so you don’t have to learn the hard way.

Top Self-Driving Car Companies: Major Differences & Deployment

Leading Self-Driving Car Companies and Their Deployment Strategies

The advent of autonomous driving cars marks a significant shift in the automotive industry, with several companies spearheading this technological revolution. Each company has developed distinct approaches and technologies, tailored to their vision of the future of autonomous driving. This article delves into some of the top self-driving car companies and explores where and how they are deploying their technologies.

Can Police Use Video Footage to Ticket or Arrest You?

With the rise of smartphones, dashcams, and doorbell cameras, public video footage has become a powerful tool in modern law enforcement. But can police actually issue tickets or make arrests based solely on video sent in by private citizens? Yes, they can — and they do, particularly in cities like Los Angeles.

Let’s explore how it works, what the law says, and what real cases tell us about the outcome of using video footage as legal evidence.

How Police Use Video as Legal Evidence

Video submitted by the public is increasingly being used by police departments for:

• Traffic enforcement

• Identifying suspects in crimes

• Filing misdemeanor or felony charges

• Public shaming that leads to voluntary surrenders

The footage must meet a few criteria:

• It must clearly depict a violation or crime.

• The individual(s) must be identifiable.

• The footage must be timestamped and verifiable.

• The incident must occur in a jurisdiction where video-based enforcement is allowed.

Key Stats on Video-Based Policing

• A 2023 report from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) noted that over 50% of major U.S. departments accept and use citizen-submitted video footage in official investigations.

• In a 2022 LAPD study, 1 in 8 arrests related to street takeovers in Los Angeles were made possible due to social media or smartphone videos submitted by the public.

• In cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, doorbell cam footage led to arrests in over 30% of reported package thefts in high-density neighborhoods.

Real Examples: Video Leads to Arrests and Citations

1. Street Racing and Speeding in Los Angeles

Street takeovers and reckless speeding are major issues in LA. In one notable 2022 case, a citizen submitted dashcam footage of two Dodge Chargers weaving through traffic on the 101 Freeway at over 100 mph. The LAPD's Central Traffic Division was able to identify one vehicle via license plate and issued:

• A $1,500 speeding citation

• A misdemeanor reckless driving charge

• A 30-day vehicle impound

LAPD’s street racing tip line receives hundreds of videos per month. Officers say many lead to mailed citations and court dates, especially when plates and timestamps are visible.

2. Road Rage Incident on the 405

A viral 2023 video showed a man smashing another driver’s windshield with a pipe during an altercation near Sherman Oaks. A bystander uploaded the video to Twitter, tagging the LAPD. Within 48 hours, the suspect was arrested and charged with:

• Felony vandalism

• Assault with a deadly weapon

The video served as primary evidence in court and led to a conviction with 9 months in county jail.

3. Reckless Motorcycle Group on the 110 Freeway

In early 2024, dozens of motorcyclists blocked traffic to perform stunts on the freeway. Multiple dashcams caught the group in action. CHP used the footage to:

• Identify 6 riders

• Issue 4 citations for reckless driving

• Make 2 arrests (one rider had outstanding warrants)

Can You Get a Ticket Based Only on Citizen-Submitted Video?

Yes — if the video meets legal standards. In California, there’s no requirement that a police officer witness a violation in person if clear video evidence exists. However:

• Officers must verify the vehicle’s registration and the driver’s identity.

• You may receive a Notice to Appear in court rather than an immediate fine.

• Video alone is not always sufficient for arrest — supporting witness statements or other corroborating evidence are often needed.

What About Privacy?

If the footage was captured:

• In public: There is generally no expectation of privacy.

• By private citizens: They are within their rights to film in public spaces.

• Inside a home or private property: This could trigger legal concerns if obtained without consent or a warrant.

🎥 Guide to Submitting Video Footage to LAPD or CHP

✅ What You Need Before You Submit:

• Clear video footage (MP4 or MOV format preferred)

• Visible license plate or vehicle details (make/model/color)

• Exact time, date, and location of the incident

• Your contact info (optional for anonymous reports)

📤 How to Submit to LAPD

Option 1: Street Racing & Reckless Driving Reports

• Email: streetracing@lapd.online

• Subject Line: Video Evidence – Street Racing – [Date of Incident]

• Include in Email:

  pgsql

  FullName: [Your Nameor Anonymous] Date & Timeof Incident: [MM/DD/YYYY, HH:MM AM/PM] Location: [Street, Freeway, Cross Streets, City] Vehicle Details: [License plate, color, make, model if known] Description: [Brief summaryof what happened] Video Attached: [Yes/No — attach video or link to file]

  • Attach video file (under 25MB) or upload to a cloud service (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) and provide the link.

Option 2: General Crime or Traffic Violation

• Use LAPD’s Online Reporting Portal:
  https://www.lapdonline.org/file-a-police-report/

  • Choose the appropriate category.

  • Upload video or describe how to access it.

🚓 How to Submit to California Highway Patrol (CHP)

For freeway incidents, reckless driving, or hit-and-runs:

• Local CHP Office Directory:
  https://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office

  • Contact your local CHP office by phone or email.

  • Let them know you have video footage to submit.

Sample Email Template:

pgsql

Subject: Video Evidence – Reckless Driving on [Freeway Name] – [Date] Dear CHP Officer, I am submitting video evidence of a reckless driving incident that occurred on [Freeway Name] on [MM/DD/YYYY] at approximately [Time]. Location: [Mile marker, nearest exit, orcross streets] Vehicle Details: [License plate, color, make/model if visible] Brief Description: [1–2 sentences about what happened] I’ve attached the video to this message (or linked to a cloud file below): [Dropbox/Google Drive Link] Please let me know ifany further details are needed. Sincerely, [Your Nameor "Concerned Citizen"]

⚠️ Tips for Effective Submissions

• Use stable, non-shaky footage.

• Avoid narration or added commentary.

• Do not edit or add filters to the video.

• Keep a copy for your own records.

Download This Guide as a PDF:
(Let me know if you’d like me to generate a downloadable PDF for printing or sharing.)

Would you like the guide branded with your site name or logo (e.g., for use on diyicebaths.com or another domain)?

Your Legal Rights

If you're the person being investigated based on video:

• You can challenge the evidence in court.

• You have the right to see the footage used against you.

• You are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

• You do not have to speak to police without legal counsel.

Final Thoughts

In cities like Los Angeles, where reckless driving and street takeovers are a growing issue, police are actively encouraging the public to report crimes using video evidence. While the law protects your rights, the rise of camera-enabled enforcement means your actions — on or off the freeway — may come back to you later.

Whether you're a concerned citizen or just want to understand your legal standing, it's important to know: Yes, video footage can absolutely lead to tickets and arrests — and it already is.

What Happens if You Crash with a Waymo Driverless Car

The Rise of Driverless Cars and Waymo

Manhattan Beach Pedestrian Deaths and DUI Crashes on PCH / Sepulveda Boulevard

Manhattan Beach, CA – The stretch of Sepulveda Boulevard (Pacific Coast Highway/PCH) between Artesia Boulevard and 9th Street has become one of the most dangerous roadways in the South Bay for pedestrians and drivers. Over the past six months, this corridor has seen multiple fatal crashes, including three pedestrian deaths and a suspected DUI collision, raising urgent concerns among residents and safety advocates.

⚠️ May 3, 2025 – Fatal Suspected DUI Crash on Sepulveda Blvd

At approximately 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, May 3, a pedestrian was fatally struck in the area of Sepulveda Boulevard and Duncan Place. According to the Manhattan Beach Police Department (MBPD):

• Officers found the victim lying on the roadway next to the suspect’s vehicle.

• The driver remained on scene and was suspected of being under the influence.

• The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

This incident is being investigated as a DUI-related fatality.

🟥 April 19, 2025 – Fatal Hit-and-Run on PCH at Ocean Avenue in Torrance

Just two weeks prior, on April 19, a separate fatal hit-and-run occurred on Pacific Coast Highway at Ocean Avenue in Torrance, resulting in the death of a pedestrian.

According to the Torrance Police Department:

• Officers responded to reports of a person down in the roadway.

• The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

• The suspect vehicle fled and has not yet been located.

The incident remains under investigation, and authorities urge any witnesses to come forward.

This highlights a growing regional problem across South Bay cities, with dangerous driving behaviors contributing to pedestrian fatalities on major corridors like PCH.

💥 Other Major Pedestrian Fatalities on Sepulveda Blvd

December 16, 2024 – Pedestrian Killed Near 9th Street

A 72-year-old man, Michael Kawasaki, was struck and killed in the 900 block of Sepulveda Blvd. The driver stayed on scene and cooperated with police.

January 7, 2025 – Fatal Hit-and-Run Near Longfellow Drive

In a hit-and-run crash on the 300 block of Sepulveda Blvd, one person was killed and another critically injured. The suspect was later apprehended.

📉 Why Sepulveda Boulevard Is So Dangerous

1. Hilly Terrain with Limited Visibility

Sepulveda Blvd features steep hills, with intersections like 9th Street and Duncan Place located at hill crests or bases, which significantly limits driver line of sight. Drivers may not see pedestrians or vehicles until it’s too late.

2. Poor Lighting and Infrastructure

Lack of pedestrian lighting, unmarked crosswalks, and minimal safety buffers increases the risk of night-time accidents.

3. High Speeds and Traffic Volume

Though the posted limit is 40–45 mph, many drivers exceed this, especially at night. Coupled with limited visibility, this creates extremely hazardous conditions.

4. Multiple Business Entrances

The corridor is lined with businesses and driveways, causing sudden stops and turns that add to collision risk.

🚔 City Response: Plans to Improve PCH Safety

The City of Manhattan Beach is reviewing multiple safety upgrades, including:

• Flashing pedestrian crosswalks

• Improved street lighting

• Speed feedback signs

• Raised medians for pedestrian refuge

• DUI checkpoints and increased patrols

📝 Summary: Recent Fatal Incidents (Nov 2024 – May 2025)

Date	Location	Type	Outcome
May 3, 2025	Sepulveda & Duncan Place (MB)	Suspected DUI	1 pedestrian fatality
Apr 19, 2025	PCH & Ocean Ave (Torrance)	Hit-and-run	1 pedestrian fatality
Jan 7, 2025	Sepulveda & Longfellow (MB)	Hit-and-run	1 fatality, 1 critical injury
Dec 16, 2024	Sepulveda & 9th Street (MB)	Pedestrian struck	1 fatality

🚶 Safety Tips for South Bay Drivers and Pedestrians

Pedestrians:

• Cross only at signalized or marked crosswalks

• Wear reflective gear at night

• Avoid distractions like smartphones and headphones

Drivers:

• Obey posted speed limits

• Be vigilant in low-visibility zones

• Never drive under the influence

• Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and driveways

• Don't drive in the far right lane

• Don't park on PCH

⚠️ Final Thoughts

With multiple pedestrian deaths across Manhattan Beach and Torrance in just a few months, Sepulveda Boulevard and PCH are proving increasingly deadly. Local governments, police departments, and residents must act now to enhance safety and hold reckless drivers accountable before more lives are lost.

Unlock Adventure in Business Travel for Enhanced Productivity and Enjoyment

In the fast-paced world of business travel, every trip poses a golden opportunity to blend unrivaled productivity with enriching experiences. Imagine stepping off a plane, not with a weary sigh, but with a sense of anticipation for the new challenges and connections that await. As globalization tightens its grip, the art of business travel evolves, requiring a skillful balance between efficiency and enjoyment. This article will guide you through the transformative power of smart strategies, turning each journey into a rewarding chapter of your professional life.

Smart Packing for Stress-Free Travel Adventures

Packing smartly is the cornerstone of a stress-free travel experience. Embrace minimalist packing by focusing on essential items like versatile outfits and quick-drying fabrics. Creating a personalized packing checklist can help prioritize these multipurpose items. Using packing cubes and rolling techniques can maximize your luggage space, allowing you to stick to a carry-on. This approach not only saves time at the airport but also aligns with a minimalist lifestyle, enhancing your travel productivity and enjoyment.

Boosting Travel Efficiency with Tech Tools

In today’s digital age, technology is your best ally on business trips. With the expansion of 5G, you can enjoy high-speed internet even in remote locations, facilitating real-time collaboration. Utilize digital workplace tools to maintain seamless communication with your team. Additionally, integrating AI into your mobile devices can automate routine tasks, boosting efficiency and ensuring you stay connected, making your travels more effective and enjoyable.

Journey to Wellness and Sustainability

Prioritizing health and sustainability during business trips is crucial. Opt for accommodations that offer wellness programs and focus on longevity cuisine to keep you rejuvenated. Engage in culturally enriching activities that promote personal growth, creating a balance between productivity and well-being. By incorporating these practices into your travel plan, your journey becomes more rewarding and sustainable.

Cultural Savvy and Networking for Global Success

Excelling in international business travel requires cultural adaptation and effective networking. Understanding local customs and adjusting your work hours for time zone differences shows respect and enhances collaboration. Embrace cultural intelligence to navigate unique communication styles and work expectations, fostering effective relationships with international partners. This approach not only boosts productivity but also enriches your travel experience.

Crafting a Flexible and Enjoyable Itinerary

A flexible itinerary is key to blending work and leisure during business travel. Plan your schedule strategically to maximize productivity and enjoyment. Consider extending your trip by a day or two after work commitments to explore local attractions without professional pressures. Utilizing work-leisure balance apps can help transition smoothly between tasks and relaxation, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Turning Travel Expenses into Rewards

Leveraging loyalty programs can enhance your travel experience by boosting comfort and cost-efficiency. These programs offer unique benefits like gamified challenges and personalized rewards. By linking accounts and using co-branded credit cards, you can accumulate points faster, making every booking and purchase work harder for you. This strategy not only alleviates costs but also transforms routine business trips into opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.

Business Cards as Networking Catalysts

Incorporating a personalized business card into your travel toolkit can significantly enhance your networking outcomes. A business card serves as a tangible reminder of your professional encounter, offering a physical connection that emails often lack. A key to success when designing and printing a personalized card is using pre-made templates that you can customize by adding images, text, color schemes, and fonts. This ensures you quickly adapt to evolving business needs, making it a key to success at networking events.

As you embark on your next business journey, think of it not just as a series of meetings or flights, but as a carefully woven tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. By embracing efficiency and enjoyment through these strategies, you’re not only elevating your professional life but also opening doors to global cultures and new perspectives. Each trip becomes a narrative of growth and possibility, where every connection made and lesson learned propels you forward in your career. Your business travel can be more than an obligation—it can be an adventure with the power to enrich both your professional and personal life. So, pack your bags with intention, power up your tech, and prepare to turn every business trip into a memorable journey of success.

State Farm's Most Dangerous Intersections in the USA

According to State Farm, the intersection of Flamingo and Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines, Florida, is the Most Dangerous Intersection in the United States. 

Intersections are notorious for accidents, and some are more hazardous than others. State Farm has identified some of the most dangerous intersections across the United States based on traffic data and accident reports. This guide explores those high-risk intersections and offers essential tips for safer driving.

Why Intersections Are So Dangerous

Intersections are complex areas where vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists converge. This increases the likelihood of collisions due to factors such as:

• Heavy traffic flow

• Poor visibility

• Distracted driving

• Failure to yield

• Running red lights

The Most Dangerous Intersections Identified by State Farm

State Farm has compiled a list of intersections with the highest accident rates across major cities. Here are some of the most dangerous intersections in the USA:

1. Atlanta, Georgia – Memorial Drive & N Hairston Road

   • Frequent rear-end collisions and sideswipes due to congestion.

2. Houston, Texas – Bissonnet Street & Sam Houston Parkway

   • Noted for high-speed collisions and red-light running.

3. Los Angeles, California – Slauson Avenue & Western Avenue

   • High number of pedestrian accidents and side-impact crashes.

4. New York City, New York – Canal Street & 6th Avenue

   • Heavy pedestrian traffic combined with multiple turning lanes.

5. Miami, Florida – NW 27th Avenue & NW 79th Street

   • Frequent T-bone collisions due to poor visibility and speeding.

How to Stay Safe at Dangerous Intersections

Drivers can mitigate risks by practicing these safety measures:

• Slow down and prepare to stop as you approach intersections.

• Avoid distractions and stay alert for sudden lane changes.

• Observe traffic signals and yield signs carefully.

• Maintain a safe following distance to reduce rear-end collisions.

How to Access State Farm’s Intersection Data

State Farm provides access to dangerous intersection data through its website and mobile app. Drivers can search for specific locations to identify accident-prone intersections and adjust their routes accordingly.

Conclusion

Intersections are among the most hazardous areas on the road, and being aware of the most dangerous ones can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. By consulting State Farm’s list of high-risk intersections and adhering to safe driving practices, motorists can navigate these areas with greater caution and confidence.