The Most Dangerous Places to Drive in Port Aransas

Port Aransas may be a coastal getaway known for fishing, golf carts, and beachside charm, but when it comes to traffic safety, this small town sees more danger than you might expect. Especially during peak tourist season, roads in Port Aransas become congested with a mix of unfamiliar drivers, pedestrians, and an increasing number of golf carts sharing the road with cars and trucks. According to recent Texas Department of Transportation Crash Record Information System (TxDOT CRIS) data, crash rates spike significantly during the summer months, with main intersections and beach access points seeing the bulk of collisions. 

We want everyone in the Port Aransas area to stay safe and enjoy a happy, stress-free summer. That’s why we’re sharing important information about the most dangerous roads and intersections in town, along with tips to help you stay alert, avoid accidents, and make the most of the season. A little awareness goes a long way toward keeping you, your family, and your community safe on the road. 

Key Takeaways from Crash Data   

• Most Hazardous Intersection: The junction of SH-361 and Alister Street recorded the highest number of crashes (45 incidents), mainly due to high tourist volume, frequent golf cart traffic, and failure to obey traffic signals. 
• Crash Timing Trends: Accidents peak between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM during the busy tourist season (March through August). A second spike occurs on weekend evenings, especially from 6 PM to midnight, with alcohol contributing to 9.62% of serious crashes. 
• Leading Causes: The top contributing factors include speeding (27.4%), traffic signal violations (33.97%), failure to yield the right of way (23.72%), and distracted driving (12.9%). 

Most Dangerous Intersections in Port Aransas 

Port Aransas’s roads weren’t initially designed for the high-volume seasonal traffic it receives these days. Intersections that function fine during the off-season quickly become overwhelmed during spring break, summer weekends, and holidays. The outdated design, with limited signage and turn lanes, mixed vehicles on the road, and a lack of traffic signals, makes it difficult for tourists unfamiliar with the local layout to drive safely. 

According to TxDOT CRIS, these are the top 10 intersections in Port Aransas for crashes.   

Top Causes of Crashes 

Several recurring factors appear frequently in Port Aransas crash reports. One of the most common is failure to yield the right of way, especially at four-way stops or uncontrolled intersections, where confusion often leads to collisions. Speeding on Highway 361 is another significant issue, particularly for drivers rushing to or from the ferry. Distracted driving is also a concern, particularly among tourists navigating unfamiliar roads while looking at phones, maps, or the scenery. Additionally, golf cart misuse contributes to many incidents, often involving illegal roadway use or unsafe maneuvers by unlicensed or inexperienced drivers. 

Port Aransas’s Most Crash-Prone Roads and Corridors 

On top of the busy intersections, the streets of Port Aransas can become overwhelmingly crowded, especially on nice days when many people are heading to the beach or the ports. As a result, local streets often see a higher number of accidents. Below are the top 10 streets to avoid or use with extra caution. 

When Crashes Happen Most Often   

Crashes in Port Aransas happen mostly during late-night and early-morning hours, particularly on weekends when impaired driving is more common. Friday afternoons and evenings also see a spike in collisions as weekend traffic begins to build. The summer months see a noticeable increase in crashes, particularly along Highway 361, attributed to higher tourist volumes and impatient driving behaviors.   

These are the times when it is essential to take extra precautions while driving, such as monitoring your surroundings or staying off the road. Avoiding late nights on weekends, mainly after midnight, is the best way to keep safe. 

Why Crashes Here are so Dangerous? 

Driving in Port Aransas can turn risky quickly. Between the tourist traffic, fast drivers on Highway 361, and late-night fatigue or impairment, accidents can be more severe than you’d expect. Always drive with caution, especially in summer and on less-lit rural stretches. 

We encourage you to observe posted speed limits, avoid nighttime travel when possible, and remain vigilant for slower-moving traffic such as golf carts. During peak seasons, allow additional travel time and be prepared for sudden congestion near beaches, ferries, and intersections. 

Drive Smart. Stay Safe. We’re Here to Help After an Accident. 

Staying safe on the roads in Port Aransas starts with being alert, patient, and prepared. Whether you're a resident or just visiting for the weekend, it's essential to understand the city's unique traffic patterns, seasonal congestion, and high-risk areas, especially along Highway 361 and near the ferry terminals.   

We want you to enjoy everything Port Aransas has to offer, and that starts with making wise choices behind the wheel. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in the area, don’t wait to get help. Contact our experienced team today by calling (361) 452-1279. We’re here to answer your questions, help you understand your options, and guide you through every step of the process. 

Drive safely and remember, a few extra precautions can make all the difference.