In recent years, the intersection of Riverland Drive and Maybank Highway on James Island has become more than the textbook definition of an intersection – it has become a hot spot for car accidents and injury.
According to the State Department of Public Safety, the James Island intersection has seen 97 accidents occur since 2020, with 41 of those accidents resulting in an injury.
In an interview conducted with Live 5 News, Celeste Shumate was one of the 41 victims whose car accident at the James Island intersection resulted in an injury. “I actually have an injury that led to an impairment rating. So, yeah, I have, like, a lifelong injury from that accident,” said Shumate.
Riverland Terrace neighbor Claire Hayden told Live 5 News, “It’s personal every day because I use it, and it’s scary every single time we go through it, we have to pause and make sure no one’s running the light. You see it daily.”
Over time, multiple plans have been proposed to help address the dangers within this intersection, including widening Maybank Highway to include turn lanes or redirecting turning traffic, Live 5 News reports. However, county and city leaders’ lack of public support halted any plans moving forward.
Now, leaders are taking another look at the intersection and how to address the ongoing dangers it presents to drivers.
“They’re going to need some community support when that time comes when they can reveal plans. I just hope people will be careful. They will slow down. I hope our government officials will do something soon. My family was okay. The next family may not be okay,” Hayden told Live 5 News.
A follow-up meeting for county officials will be held on April 16 to draft more plan alternatives for the intersection.
What is the Leading Cause of Intersection Accidents?
According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 97% of intersection accidents involved distracted drivers. In comparison, the remaining 3% of intersection-related crashes were attributed to vehicle or environmental factors.
In most cases, one of the leading causes of intersection accidents is “inadequate surveillance,” in which the driver fails to scan their surroundings and check their mirrors to ensure safety while completing a maneuver. For example, failing to check your blind spots would fall under inadequate surveillance.
In over 756,000 intersection-related accidents with driver-attributed causes, false assumption of another’s actions, turning with an obstructed view and engaging in an illegal maneuver following behind inadequate surveillance.
What Should You Do After an Intersection Accident?
The James Island intersection is just one of many throughout South Carolina. Whether the intersection is controlled by stop signs, traffic signals, or yield signs, it’s essential to know what to do next if you are involved in an accident at an intersection.
Prioritize Safety
Intersections involve many moving parts, making safety paramount in preventing further injury or risk. If you are able, safely move your vehicle to the side of the road or a secure location and activate your hazard lights.
Report the Accident
Whether the intersection accident resulted in an injury or not, call law enforcement officers to the scene. The officers will create an official accident report, documenting facts, gathering statements from everyone involved, and issuing citations, if any.
Be sure to request a copy of the report, as this document will be critical for your car accident lawyer if you pursue legal action.
Intersection Accident: Who’s at Fault?
Determining fault with any car accident can be complicated, and the process only grows in complexity regarding intersection-related crashes.
Factors such as traffic signals, stop signs, right-of-way protocols, and driver actions will be analyzed, and fault will be determined. With help from our car accident attorneys, we will evaluate the details and factors surrounding your crash to ensure you are not held unfairly liable for the negligent actions of another.
Leave Your Intersection Accident to Hoffman Law Firm
Intersection accidents can leave you with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and sometimes even unfair responsibility.
That’s why we recommend you leave it to Hoffman.
Our team of car accident lawyers near you is highly skilled in handling intersection-related accident cases, from collecting information to handling negotiations with your insurance company and everything in between.
With offices in Charleston and Georgetown, SC, we proudly advocate for accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. We have established a reputation for success and excellent service!
Schedule your free consultation today to meet with a car accident lawyer in Charleston, SC, or Georgetown. We are here to help!
For more on local news and car accident claims, explore here:
- James Island, SC Intersections to Receive Millions in Road Improvement Plan – and How to Avoid an Intersection Accident in the Meantime
- SC State Rep. Wendell Gilliard Involved in Serious Car Accident on I-26
- South Carolina’s Deadliest Highway? I-95 Multi-Car Accident Reminds Us Why It Tops The List
- Maserati Crashes into Deli in Downtown Charleston Early Tuesday Morning
- Mt Pleasant High School Student Struck by Vehicle Raises Safety Concerns
- 3 Dead Following Two Single-Vehicle Crashes in the North Charleston Area
- Hit-and-Run of Motorcycle in Ladson Road Leaves 1 Dead, 1 Injured
- South Carolina Ranks High For Dangerous Drivers
- How Long Does It Take To Settle A Personal Injury Claim in Charleston?
- The Importance of Taking Photos For Evidence After Your Car Accident in Charleston
- What to Do After A Hit and Run in Charleston
- 3 Reasons to Hire a Charleston Car Accident Attorney
- Can I Seek Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries in Charleston?
- View All Blogs
