New Interchange Design On I-95 Could Increase Car Accident Risks
Many residents and commuters or visitors to our area rely on Interstate 95 as a primary means of travel. Traffic congestion and the high rates of speed already increase the likelihood of car accidents in Miami. Unfortunately, a new interchange design implemented on a section of I-95 in Broward County could increase driver risks. Find out more about it and how to safely navigate the area.
Navigating The New I-95 Interchange
A section of I-95 in Broward County near Glades Road has been reopened after lengthy road closures. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) recently announced that traffic could move freely due to the completion of a new Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) in the area.
For motorists, the new traffic pattern represents a major change and is likely to be somewhat difficult to figure out at first. One of the characteristics of the configuration is that it requires traffic lanes to cross over each other, meaning that motorists will momentarily be driving on what is traditionally the ‘wrong’ side of the road.
While FDOT expects the new change to result in a roughly 30 percent drop in car accidents, the Miami Herald recently published some tips to help protect driver safety during what may be a difficult adjustment period:
- Slow down as you approach the interchange, which has a reduced speed of 35 miles per hour;
- Do not rely on GPS to navigate, which may not be updated yet;
- Instead, look for lane markings while still keeping an eye on traffic signs and signals;
- Be aware that additional changes are in the works, and that an additional lane will eventually be added.
How Interchange Design Impacts Safety
While the FDOT hopes the new diverging diamond interchange on I-95 will reduce car accident risks, studies show it could increase the likelihood of crashes.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that awkward and erratic maneuvers in general that commonly occur at interchanges make car accidents at these locations over four times more likely to occur. In addition, DOT studies over the past several decades show designs such as the diverging diamond, which requires motorists to drive contrary to previously established patterns, cause directional uncertainty that can contribute to crashes.
To reduce your risks, follow the above safety tips. If you are involved in a car accident at the new interchange, take these steps:
- Report the accident to law enforcement;
- Note the exact location;
- Get names and contact information for other drivers involved and witnesses at the scene;
- Seek medical care for your injuries;
- Contact our Miami car accident lawyers, who can advise you on your options in filing a claim.
Contact Our Miami Car Accident Lawyers
At Pita Weber Del Prado, we help you hold at-fault parties responsible for car accident injuries you suffer. To get the total amount of compensation you are entitled to, call 305-670-2889 or contact our Miami car accident lawyers online today and request a consultation.
Sources:
d4fdot.com/pbfdot/glades_road_diverging_diamond_interchange.asp
miamiherald.com/news/traffic/article271896082.html
highways.dot.gov/safety/other/older-road-user/handbook-designing-roadways-aging-population/chapter-3-interchanges
