The tragic death of a 15-year-old girl in a high-speed crash near Coupeville has reignited concerns about road safety along State Route 20 (SR20). The teen driver crash highlights persistent dangers at the Libbey Road intersection, known for its steep downhill curve and history of traffic fatalities.
The Latest Tragedy on SR20
Early Monday morning, a teen driver behind the wheel of a 2022 Dodge Charger lost control on the downhill stretch of SR20, veering into oncoming traffic before colliding with a utility pole. The crash totaled the car and caused significant damage to the infrastructure at the Libbey Road intersection.
The collision marks the second fatality at this location in 2024. In March, 37-year-old David Burk lost his life in a motorcycle crash at the same spot. Residents have expressed increasing frustration over the intersection’s dangerous design, which combines a curve and a downgrade that make controlling speed difficult.
Dangerous Intersections Spark Demand for Action
Local resident Todd Albi, who lives near the intersection, called the Libbey Road crash a preventable tragedy. “This is one of the worst intersections on SR20 because of the downgrade. They’re all driving way too fast,” Albi said.
Albi and other residents advocate for the installation of a roundabout at the intersection. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), roundabout benefits include a 75% reduction in injury collisions and a 90% reduction in fatal crashes. These traffic-calming measures slow vehicles through their geometric design rather than relying on speed limits or traffic control signs.
WSDOT’s Approach to Safety Improvements
While SR20 safety concerns are evident, WSDOT evaluates improvements based on key criteria:
- Accident History: Frequency and severity of crashes, including factors like speed and collision type.
- Intersection Operation: Current and projected travel delays.
- Vehicle Types: The mix of vehicles using the intersection, including large trucks.
- Cost: Construction expenses, land acquisition, and maintenance.
Two roundabouts are already planned for intersections north of Oak Harbor on SR20—at Fakkema Road and Campbell Lake Road—with construction slated for 2025. However, no plans are currently in place for a roundabout installation at Libbey Road, despite the repeated traffic fatalities.
A Community United for Safer Roads
Residents argue that the number of fatal crashes near Coupeville makes this a priority. “We need to do something proactive because we’re having way too many accidents here,” Albi said. Advocates believe that even temporary solutions, such as enhanced signage or speed enforcement, could help prevent further tragedies while long-term projects are planned.
Conclusion: A Call for Immediate Action
The Coupeville fatal crash involving the teenage driver underscores the urgent need to address dangerous intersections like the one at Libbey Road and SR20. The community’s push for safety improvements, particularly the installation of a roundabout, reflects the growing demand for proactive measures to reduce accidents and save lives.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a traffic accident, understanding your legal options is essential. Contact a personal injury attorney to explore your rights and potential claims. For more information, visit our resources on road safety and legal support.
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