As reputable Columbia car accident lawyers, we have represented hundreds of accident victims across the city. Throughout our decades of combined experience it has become clear that even the most careful and cautious drivers are at risk of being involved in an accident. Accidents are unpredictable and can happen in the blink of an eye, to anyone. This article will discuss where the most dangerous intersections are in Columbia and throughout Richland County in terms of accident volume.

The Most Dangerous Columbia Intersections:

  1. Assembly Street and Elmwood Avenue
  2. I-20 and I-26 Interchange
  3. I-26 and Broad River Road
  4. I-77 and Killian Road
  5. Sparkleberry Lane and Two Notch Road
  6. Trenholm Road Extension and Two Notch Road
  7. South Lake Drive and Two Notch Road
  8. Elmwood Avenue and Main Street
  9. Huger Street and Taylor Street
  10. Huger Street and Gervais Street
  11. Zimalcrest Drive and Broad River Road
  12. Leisure Lane and St. Andrews Road
  13. Augusta Road and Woodberry Road
  14. Augusta Road and Oak Drive

It’s important to use extra caution when driving through any intersection, but perhaps especially the ones on this list. While this list is a good starting point, intersections always pose a risk for drivers and pedestrians alike, and it’s important to keep that in mind when approaching an intersection.

Additional South Carolina Vehicle Collision Data

In addition to being aware of some of the most dangerous intersections in Columbia, there are other factors you should keep in mind while traveling across the city in terms of when accidents peak.

According to the most recent data available from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), the months with the most collisions were as follows:

  • October
  • November
  • December

In addition, most accidents happened on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday between:

  • 3:01 pm and 6:00 pm
  • 12:01 pm and 3:00 pm 
  • 6:01 pm through 9:00 pm

This data is a reminder that we should all be hyper aware of what’s going on during the road, especially during lunch and rush hours.

Common Causes of Columbia Intersection Crashes

While every car accident is unique, there are some commonalities when it comes to causes of intersection crashes. Intersection accidents can happen due to:

  • Illegal maneuvers
  • Aggressive driving
  • Obstructed views
  • Distracted driving
  • Misjudging another driver’s speed
  • Misjudging your distance from other vehicle
  • And more

Tips to Help Avoid Intersection Accidents

In addition to using extra caution when in or around intersections, there are a few tips that you can follow to help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident.

Pay attention to driving.

Distracted driving is a leading cause of all accidents. Avoid physical distractions like texting, eating, watching videos, as well as mental distractions like daydreaming. 

Stay patient, especially in traffic.

Most South Carolina accidents occur during rush hour. Avoid aggressive driving and remain cautious.

Follow the speed limit.

Not only is speeding extremely dangerous and a leading cause of all car accidents, speeding is simply not worth the risk.

Maintain your vehicle.

A lack of proper vehicle maintenance can cause car accidents. Make sure you are keeping your vehicle up-to-date on inspections and repairs.

Follow the rules of the road.

Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic signals, drive sober, and follow state laws.

Plan ahead.

You should always anticipate potential hazards and situations around you while on the road. Drive defensively to help avoid accidents.

Contact Our Columbia Car Accident Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Columbia, whether in a vehicle or as a pedestrian, we are here to help you. Let us fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve under South Carolina law. 

To take back control and get started on the road to recovery today, simply call our office at (803) 888-2200 or submit our quick online request form for an entirely free case evaluation.