Negotiating SA’s notorious crash spots
More than 400 crashes, 142 minor injuries, 7 serious injuries and 5 deaths – that’s how just 5 notorious intersections across South Australia contributed to the state’s road toll between 2013 and 2017.
It’s safe to say South Australia has its fair share of infamous crash spots, like the hazardous Britannia roundabout near the CBD or ‘crash corner’ at Port Wakefield.
Whether you’re driving along rural roads or navigating city streets, you’ll likely come across one or more at some point. The key is knowing how to negotiate them safely.
Blackwood roundabout, Blackwood
Why it’s notorious
Although the Blackwood roundabout was upgraded last year, it’s still one of the more challenging roundabouts to negotiate in Adelaide.In fact, the new line markings and shape of the roundabout are causing some confusion for motorists.In the 5 years before it was upgraded, there were 29 crashes, with 10 resulting in injuries that required medical attention. Half of the 10 casualty crashes were due to a motorist failing to give way.
Blackwood roundabout.
What to look out for
1. If you’re travelling south along Main Rd and want to go straight at the roundabout to Coromandel Pde, you can do so from the left or right lane. However, RAA suggests motorists taking this route should stay in the right lane to avoid a possible conflict with vehicles travelling from Shepherds Hill Rd to Main Rd. 2. Motorists should always indicate when exiting a roundabout, but it doesn’t always happen. At this intersection it’s vital, due to the size, shape and the fact that the numerous entry and exit points are at odd angles to each other. 3. Slow down when you approach, as some motorists travel through the roundabout too fast. This will give you sufficient time to analyse the situation and determine when it’s safe to make your move.Britannia roundabout, Kent Town
Why it’s notorious
In 2013, the state government spent $3.2 million splitting the Britannia roundabout in 2 to improve safety, yet the intersection’s still 1 of Adelaide’s most common casualty crash spots.Between 2013 and 2017 there were 237 crashes at the intersection.Fifty of those were casualty crashes, with 1 person suffering serious injuries. RAA road safety expert Charles Mountain said right-angle and rear-end collisions were common at the intersection due to high volumes of traffic.