To keep Grice Connect readers informed on how to stay safe on the road, we have spoken to the Statesboro Police Department to give us some information on the busiest intersections in Statesboro to help promote better driving and prevent future accidents.
The findings presented are reported from examining the Statesboro Police Department's Annual Report for 2022, and in speaking with the SPD Chief of Police, Mike Broadhead. The annual traffic crash report compiles information for local accidents from January 1st-December 31st of each respective year.
Many of the traffic accidents in 2022 took place on the Bypass in Statesboro.
Each of these intersections are controlled intersections with traffic lights and multiple lanes.
According to the SPD's Annual Report for 2022, the Top 5 Crash Locations in Statesboro were:
- VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY @ FAIR RD: 150 Crashes
- VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY @ LANIER DR: 75 Crashes
- VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY @ BRANNEN ST: 53 Crashes
- VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY @ NORTHSIDE DR E: 52 Crashes
- VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY @ SOUTH MAIN ST: 42 Crashes
For the full "Statesboro Police Department's Annual Report for 2022", CLICK HERE.
CRASH PREVENTION TIPS FROM THE SPD
Chief Broadhead shared crash prevention tips and some potential future traffic developments.
"One thing that we are working with the Georgia Department of Transportation on is to get controlled red arrow signals on traffic lights at many of the other trouble spot Bypass locations (similar to those on the South Main Street). Having red arrow signals may cut down the number of crashes, particularly on Fair Road, significantly," he said.
"From our perspective here at the SPD, there are two ways that we look at reducing traffic crashes," he added. "One is to reduce the total volume of traffic crashes. The second is to reduce the severity of traffic crashes. Speeding is a big cause and contributor to the severity of traffic crashes. So, if drivers can reduce speeds going into these intersections, as most of these bypass intersections have some of the highest recorded speeds in Statesboro, we can reduce the severity of traffic crashes at the very least."
Chief Broadhead continued, "When we do speed enforcement checks in the areas of these crashes, it is to primarily reduce the severity of traffic crashes. Distracted driving is also an issue that is prevalent on the roads. So, being more mindful when driving is also key to preventing future traffic accidents. It is important that everybody pays attention to their driving on the roads. Many of these traffic crashes are preventable if citizens continue to pay attention and mind the rules of the road."
Remember to slow down, be aware, and stay safe on the road, readers!