Traffic Safety Experts Identify Hazardous Intersections in Richland County
Traffic safety experts have identified the most hazardous intersections within Richland County, based on recent data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. All five high-risk areas are situated near the county's major interstate highways.
Population and Accident Statistics
With a population exceeding 425,000 residents and over 355,000 registered vehicles, Richland County recorded 12,450 traffic accidents in 2023. This figure ranks third among South Carolina counties, following Charleston and Greenville, and resulted in a traffic-related economic loss of approximately $3.4 million.
Notable Intersections and Infrastructure
Notably, two of the riskiest intersections are located within the notorious Malfunction Junction—a complex interchange where I-20, I-26, and I-126 converge. In 2021, a $1.7 billion overhaul project called "Carolina Crossroads" aimed to improve safety and traffic flow by widening roads, adding new ramps, and eliminating certain interchanges, including the Bush River Road off-ramp.
Most Dangerous Spots in 2023
- I-20...