ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The North Carolina Department of Transportation implemented a new all-way stop at the intersection of Beaverdam Road and Kimberly Avenue earlier this week.
The new signage was installed on Monday, July 27, at the north Asheville intersection after the NCDOT documented 11 crashes in five years at the site.
“The all-way stop would have reduced or eliminated nine of the crashes,” the NCDOT said.
In addition to the new stop signs, crews have installed “Stop Ahead” and “New Traffic Pattern” signs, in addition to pavement markings alerting drivers to the new traffic pattern.
“NCDOT officials also anticipate drivers reducing speeds along Beaverdam Road,” the NCDOT said.
New intersection at Beaverdam Road, more safety for Asheville drivers
According to NCDOT data, all-way stops reduce total crashes by 55%, with crashes causing fatalities or serious injuries reduced by 92% and frontal-impact crashes causing minor injuries dropping by 72%.
In keeping with the data, the new Beaverdam Road and Kimberly Avenue all-way stop should increase safety for north Asheville drivers.
“The conversion is intended to improve safety and mobility while reducing dangerous crash patterns including angle crashes at this askew intersection,” the NCDOT said.
According to the NCDOT, drivers approaching an all-way stop should follow these rules:
- The first vehicle to the intersection has the right of way ahead of any vehicle that has not yet arrived.
- When two or more vehicles reach an intersection at the same time, the vehicle to the right has the right of way.
- The vehicle with the right of way may move straight ahead or, if legal and after signaling, turn left or right.
- When two facing vehicles approach an intersection at the same time, both drivers can move straight ahead and turn right. If one driver is going straight while the other wants to turn left, the driver who wants to turn left must yield. The driver who is traveling straight ahead has the right of way.
- Even with the right of way, remember to use the appropriate turn signals and be careful to avoid hitting other vehicles and pedestrians.
