Pawtucket’s S-Curves on the I-95 are notorious for car accidents. Drivers in all types of vehicles from large tractor-trailers to smaller cars and motorcycles are caught off-guard by these treacherous curves. Even those who are accustomed to them can be in danger if they fail to pay attention to the roadway or the surrounding environment. These S-Curves have been the subject of much controversy over the years. Even though reflective traffic signs have been installed at these locations, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) found that these sharp highway curves have been the cause of a multitude of Pawtucket car accident lawsuits.
Why Are Curved Roadways So Dangerous?
The agency found that 76 percent of these crashes on the I-95 Pawtucket S-Curves occurred when there had been a recent rain or snowstorm. It is little surprise that insurance companies and other websites rate this section of highway in their “Most Dangerous Roads for Car Accidents.” For example, GoInsuranceRates.com rated this section of the I-95 as one of the 10 most dangerous roadways in the United States in 2012.
Why are curved roadways dangerous? When a vehicle rounds a curve, two types of motion occur. First, the vehicle’s tires move forward because of the car’s natural acceleration. Additionally, the body of the vehicle is inert as it moves around the curve and these conflicting movements can cause skidding, which can prove to be quite hazardous.
What Are Some Tips To Stay Save On S-Curves?
There are several steps motorists can take to stay safe on these sharp curves in Pawtucket. Here are a few tips:
- Slow down. Simply reducing the speed of the vehicle could prevent most accidents that occur on curves. Reduce your speed before you approach a curve. Look out for road signs cautioning drivers about approaching curves so you have sufficient time to slow down. It is advisable to drive below the posted speed limit as you approach and drive through a sharp curve.
- Keep the turning to a minimum. As you approach a curve, move to the side of your lane opposite of the direction of the curve. As you continue through the curve, position your vehicle towards the other side of your lane. Finally, exit the curve towards the side of the road that you began in. This driving strategy will reduce the severity of a curve and the risk of skidding.
- Know what to do when a vehicle “understeers,” which is a type of skid that happens when the vehicle turns sharply and begins to slide on the slick sidewalls of the tires. Understeering can be prevented by reducing the speed of your vehicle as you drive around curves.
- If the vehicle skids as you drive through a curve, immediately take your foot off the brake and gas pedals. Keep both hands loosely positioned on the steering wheel and do not make any sudden steering motions.
Contact Our Firm Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent or reckless driver, the experienced Pawtucket car accident lawyers at d’Oliveira & Associates can help you understand your legal rights and options. We can help you seek and obtain maximum compensation for your losses including medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering. Furthermore, we will charge no legal fees until we obtain the settlement or award you are entitled to. Call us toll-free at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online, to set up a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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