Cobb County, Georgia, has been dealing with a dangerous intersection where Hiram, Gaydon, and Florence roads meet. According to Cobb County police, there have been a staggering 59 car crashes at this intersection since 2021. The most recent incident involved Keyera Williams, who narrowly escaped a collision at the intersection. Williams recounted her experience, stating that she stopped at the stop sign, looked both ways, and proceeded to cross the road, only to be blindsided by a truck she did not see coming. This incident highlights the inherent dangers of the current two-way stop setup at the intersection.
The statistics provided by Cobb County police reveal that there have been a total of 15 crashes at the intersection so far this year alone. This alarming number underscores the urgent need for safety improvements at this location. Bethany Reason, a long-time resident near the intersection, has witnessed numerous crashes over the years and believes that more needs to be done to prevent future accidents. Reason advocates for the installation of a roundabout or the implementation of a four-way stop to enhance safety and reduce the risk of collisions.
In response to the growing concerns from residents and drivers, Cobb County has taken steps to address the safety issues at the intersection. The county recently received $950,000 in grant funding for a safety project at the location. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction set to begin in the summer of 2025. In the meantime, the county has implemented temporary measures such as additional edge-lit signage, improved sight distance by clearing vegetation, and enhanced advance driver warnings. However, these measures have not been sufficient in reducing the number of crashes, prompting the county to consider installing an all-way stop at the intersection.
Keyera Williams, who was involved in one of the crashes at the intersection, emphasizes the importance of taking action to prevent future accidents. She expresses her fear that it may take a tragedy for significant changes to be made at the intersection. Williams hopes that by speaking out about her experience, she can help save others from similar incidents.
Overall, the situation at the intersection of Hiram, Gaydon, and Florence roads in Cobb County serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing road safety. With the county’s commitment to implementing safety improvements and the advocacy of concerned residents like Bethany Reason and Keyera Williams, there is hope for a safer future for all drivers who pass through this intersection.