When people drive in the Myrtle Beach area, they may encounter some dangerous intersections, particularly as they travel into rural areas. Some rural roads have stop signs at their junction points, despite having speed limits of up to 55 mph. When visibility is reduced due to weather or vegetation, car accidents can be even more common at these locations. Because drivers are traveling at a high rate of speed, the effects of these crashes can be serious and damaging.
One solution that has frequently been used to address dangerous intersections has been the installation of traffic lights. These lights are proven to reduce the number of accidents at a particular intersection. However, they may do little to lessen the severity of the car crashes that do occur. This is one reason why many traffic engineers are considering the use of roundabouts or traffic circles. While there is less of a numerical reduction in the number of accidents, the crashes that happen are often less severe and far less likely to involve personal injuries or even fatalities.
When drivers approach a roundabout, there is no incentive to speed up; there is no timed light or oncoming traffic to outrun. The structure of the circle requires that all drivers approaching it slow down in order to blend into traffic. In addition, studies have shown that the cost of installing a roundabout can be more than recouped in one year’s time because of the cost savings from the reduction in injury crashes at the site.
Negligent, dangerous and distracted drivers can pose a severe risk to others on the road. Those who have been injured in a collision due to someone else’s actions can consult with a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help accident victims to obtain compensation for their damages, including medical bills and lost wages.