Knowing the most dangerous intersections in Columbia can help you take extra precautions to prevent an accident. If you are hurt in a car crash in the city, a car accident attorney in Columbia, SC, from Joye Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and file for compensation.
Columbia is the second-largest city in South Carolina, home to an estimated 139,698 people. While Soda City is well-known for its university, hot summers, and vibrant art scene, it can also be a dangerous place to drive.
In 2020, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reported 734 collisions investigated by the West Columbia Police Department and another 179 investigated by the Columbia Police Department.
- Zimalcrest Drive and Broad River Road
The three-way intersection at Zimalcrest Drive and Broad River Road, near the Richland Library, is located in the middle of two high-crash collision corridors. Both stretches of road are considered by SCDPS to be among the most dangerous in the city, with the majority of collisions occurring between Monday and Thursday from midnight to 6 a.m.
If you were involved in a traffic accident due to another motorist’s negligence at this intersection, a car accident lawyer in Columbia, SC, can help you. They can review your case and help you obtain evidence to determine liability and recover compensation from the other driver.
- Leisure Lane and St. Andrews Road
The intersection between St. Andrews Road and Leisure Lane is located in Seven Oaks, SC. It’s in the Columbia Metropolitan Area, just 8 miles northwest of downtown. Leisure Lane splits into three one-way accesses into St. Andrews Road marked with stop and yield signs.
SCDPS considers most of St. Andrews Road a high-crash collision corridor. This intersection is located near a railroad crossing, increasing the risk of being involved in a traffic accident and a train collision.
According to SCDPS data, collisions are most frequent on Fridays through Sundays, primarily between midnight and 6 a.m.
- Augusta Road and Woodberry Road
Augusta Road is part of U.S. Highway 1. It is a four-lane highway, with two lanes in each direction, traveling through most of the Columbia Metropolitan. Augusta Road intersects with Woodberry Road to the north and a railroad crossing to the south at Waiting Road to the south.
SCDPS considers most of Augusta Road a high-collision corridor, with this intersection forming the corridor’s easternmost point. 29.01% of accidents here occur between midnight and 6. a.m.
Although cars are required to stop at the red lights on all four corners, there are differences in speed limits between Augusta Road and the intersection’s other branches. The speed differential, when combined with the presence of a railroad on the south end, can increase the risk of being involved in a traffic accident.
- Augusta Road and Oak Drive
This intersection is located on the same collision corridor as Augusta Road and Woodberry Road, just a few miles to the west. Here, U.S. Highway 1 intersects with Oak Drive, another four-lane street to the north. It also intersects with Church Road to the south and has red lights available on all four corners.
According to Google Maps traffic data, the densest concentrations of vehicles occur during the following periods:
- In the morning, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
- Throughout the afternoon, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- During the evening, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
These periods correspond to typical rush hour periods, during which the risk of being involved in an accident increases. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the highest number of fatal traffic accidents by time of day occur from 4 p.m. until midnight.
- Two Notch Road and South Lake Drive
This intersection can be found in Red Bank, SC, about 11 miles southwest of downtown Columbia. It comprises South Lake Drive on the north-south axis and Two Notch Road on the northeast-southwest axis. Both streets are four-lane roads that frequently see dense traffic all seven days of the week.
Like many other major intersections in the Columbia Metropolitan Area, all four corners feature red lights. However, SCDPS data shows both roads are part of the city’s high-crash collision corridors, including the intersection.
Crashes at this intersection occur most frequently from 6 p.m. to midnight and from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., correlating with the evening and morning rushes.
Tips on Safe Driving in Columbia
Whether you’re a local to Columbia or visiting the city for a University of South Carolina game, safe driving is crucial to preventing accidents. Here are a few tips for moving through Columbia safely:
- Stay patient during rush hours. Downtown Columbia can get congested, especially near the State House. Give yourself some extra time and avoid aggressive driving, like tailgating.
- Avoid flood-prone areas. Some spots, like Five Points, are known for flooding after heavy rains. Plan your route effectively in inclement weather and take extra precautions when driving.
- Plan ahead on game days. U of SC’s games can cause traffic surges. Check game schedules and plan routes accordingly.
- Use extra caution in historic districts. Narrow roads and unique traffic patterns require added attention, especially in the historic Shandon district. Respect posted speed limits, stay off the phone, and watch for pedestrians who may be out shopping or walking through the area.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in Columbia, SC, Today
Have you or a loved one been injured in a traffic accident? Whether it happened at a dangerous intersection in Columbia or any other road in South Carolina, Joye Law Firm’s knowledgeable car accident lawyers can assist you.
Our team has over 250 years of combined experience handling auto accident and personal injury claims with the care, compassion, and diligence you need. We will use our knowledge of the law to protect our rights and help you obtain compensation from the at-fault driver. Contact us today for a free case review.
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