Lack of road safety brings more death
Dear Editor:
This latest fatality on Morganton Road conjures up memories of past accidents, many of them fatalities. I’ve driven this road many times, in both directions. I can understand, maybe, not having the money in budget to pave the road anew. Temporarily, however, I see a few improvements that could be made to save lives and make people aware of certain things, things now absent.
First off, without a lot of fanfare and minimal expense, I could and would suggest that the DOT or county erect signs where truly needed, signs warning drivers of steep climbs and sharp curves well before drivers enter into them. Also needed, and have been needed for years, sizeable signs with reflectors warning drivers traveling in both directions about the main cause of these out-of-control accidents, signs warning of the “low shoulders” on both sides and in curves. Signs will warn drivers in advance of these dangers. Absent the money to repave Morganton Road, these “low shoulders” can be filled in, extended out and evened up to do away with all the overcorrections which cause such terrible crashes. Drivers not aware of what to do when passenger-side wheels do stray over these absent or deep shoulders will benefit greatly. Even seasoned drivers can be caught unaware when wheels do breach these areas between road, and gravel or dirt. This would suffice and save lives until Morganton Road can be paved and improved with more appropriate funds and means. Please pass this letter on to those charged with keeping our roads and highways safe. Tomorrow wouldn’t be too soon for at least the warning signs where appropriate.
Sincerely,
Wallace G. Johnson
203 Mimosa Circle
Maryville, TN 37801
P.S. My wife and I lost a daughter to this same and sole reason: Low shoulders and overcorrection after the fact.
