Image to the left taken from Interstate-Guide.com.

For many motorcyclists and automobile drivers who’ve traveled down Interstate 26 in South Carolina, it may come as a shock that the area that passes through Ridgeville is home to more fatal accidents than any other section of this bustling highway. According to a March 2010 article by The Post and Courier, “During the past decade, 325 people died in 286 wrecks on I-26 in South Carolina.” The article continued saying that one of the main reasons why there may be so many fatalities on this road is because of the lack of cable guardrail barriers.

I agree with this analysis since guardrails are notorious for their ability to save more lives in motor vehicle accidents. Although the lack of guardrails isn’t something in your immediate control to ensure your safety, there are precautionary measures you can take to help reduce your chances of being involved in a wreck on I-26.

Here are a few driving safety tips when traveling on I-26:

Remain Alert: According to this same Post and Courier article, “Some officials theorize that the quiet nature of the road can lull motorists into a false sense of security. After leaving the urban highway clutter of North Charleston and Summerville, I-26 has few distractions, other than, perhaps, a cross marking someone’s final drive.” If this theory is accurate, then it’s important that all drivers stay focused on the road and awake. If you’ve had a long day and are traveling back up to Columbia from Charleston, be sure that you are fit to drive and not too tired.

Don’t Travel in Bad Weather: Even if you’re a skilled driver in bad weather conditions, that doesn’t mean other drivers on the road are. Always stay alert when driving in bad weather. And if it’s difficult to see the road in front of you, pull over at the next rest stop or exit—try not to pull over on the shoulder since other motor vehicle drivers might not see your vehicle and could crash into your parked car.

Wear Your Seatbelt: It’s something you’ve heard again and again in your life, I know, but it’s worth repeating. Seatbelts have saved hundreds of thousands of lives and it could save yours to if you happen to be involved in a motor vehicle accident. Always buckle up before hitting the roads.

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