44 crashes prompt new stop signs at Morganton intersection

Drivers traveling through the intersection of Kirksey Drive and Amherst Road in eastern Morganton must now stop in all directions following a traffic safety change by the N.C. Department of Transportation.

NCDOT installed the new stop signs Wednesday after documenting 44 crashes at the intersection over 10 years. Of those, 36 were front-impact collisions that the agency says could potentially be prevented by an all-way stop.

Previously, vehicles traveling on Kirksey Drive were not required to stop.

The intersection's unusual alignment contributed to the decision to change the traffic pattern, according to NCDOT. Crews also installed pavement markings and signs warning motorists of the new stop requirements.

NCDOT cited crash data showing that all-way stops can reduce total crashes by 55%, fatal and serious injury crashes by 92%, and front-impact crashes involving minor injuries by 72%.

Under the new traffic pattern, all approaching vehicles must come to a complete stop. The first vehicle to arrive generally has the right of way. When two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the right has priority.

Drivers turning left must yield to oncoming vehicles traveling straight through the intersection. Motorists should use turn signals and watch for pedestrians and other vehicles, even when they have the right of way.

NCDOT urges drivers familiar with the intersection to pay particular attention to the new signs and pavement markings.

—AVN