Every city has those few intersections locals dread,and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is no exception. Known for its beaches, tourism, and heavy seasonal traffic, this city faces daily challenges when it comes to road safety. Unfortunately, several intersections here are notorious for frequent collisions, injuries, and even fatalities.
These danger zones don’t just affect residents,they impact students commuting to the University of South Carolina, workers heading to a manufacturing facility, or tourists exploring Huger Street, Johns Island, or shopping areas near Savannah River.
Here are the five intersections in Myrtle Beach where caution isn’t just advised,it’s necessary.
1. Highway 17 Bypass & Farrow Parkway
This is the epicenter of tourist and local chaos. With shopping outlets, restaurants, and parks nearby, it’s one of the busiest corridors. As part of the region’s broader push for downtown revitalization, many traffic changes were made,but crashes continue.
Factors that contribute:
- Heavy congestion from events and festivals
- Visitors unfamiliar with the layout
- Lack of customer service and proper signage for navigating turns
2. Highway 501 & George Bishop Parkway
As a gateway for those entering from Kershaw County, Union County, or even the City of Columbia, this intersection is infamous for lane confusion and abrupt stops. The City of Charleston has adopted better tech for similar problems, but Myrtle Beach still struggles here.
This area is also a commute path for students pursuing doctoral degrees, particularly in programs like Mechanical Engineering Technology or Criminal Justice Degree studies.
3. Highway 707 & Holmestown Road
Rapid development in this part of West Ashley and near Verdae Boulevard has created a mismatch between traffic volume and infrastructure. Locals often complain about short light cycles, and emergency services like the EMS CLOSET struggle to respond quickly due to bottlenecks.
This intersection is near programs offering financial assistance, job postings, and learning and training programs,services critical to economic mobility in the area.
4. Robert Grissom Parkway & 29th Avenue North
Near the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, this junction is central to both family and professional traffic. The area serves many traveling to government services, Online Services, or career fairs hosted by organizations like the Career Center and SC State.
It’s also a place where public art program efforts are underway to beautify the city,but poor visibility and frequent red-light runners mean aesthetics take a backseat to danger.
5. Highway 17 Business & 21st Avenue North
This intersection is perilous for those on foot and bicycles, especially seniors and families participating in the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Vouchers or mobile markets. Traffic flows unpredictably, and U-turns are common.
It’s not uncommon for residents in this area to seek help from the City Council or consult the Code of Regulations, Bill Summary, or Full Site Search archives to learn if changes are underway.
Infrastructure vs. Traffic: A South Carolina Dilemma
While cities like Greenville have embraced improvements along trails such as the Swamp Rabbit Trail, Myrtle Beach still grapples with outdated road designs. There’s growing interest in technologies like compressed air measuring technology and specialty additives to improve road materials and visibility.
Historical planning oversights,dating back to the time of European settlers, French Huguenots, and maps like the Cantino planisphere,have shaped current road systems in coastal regions of South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach.
Education, Commuting & Safety
Safety issues are not only a concern for motorists. Students from institutions like the University of South Carolina and SC State, including White House Scholars and A-list student achievers, rely on safe commutes for daily learning.
Programs like Mechatronics Engineering, Public Service & Agriculture, and bridge initiatives such as Summer Bridge deserve better infrastructure,especially in a Research 2 university setting focused on real-world problem solving.
Community Impact: More Than Just Numbers
Many individuals involved in crashes at these intersections were just on their way to:
- Renew a driver’s license
- Handle tax information
- Visit Roper Mountain Science Center
- Seek help from local Career Center
- Attend Marching 101 Band practice
- Deliver items to the King Street Pump project
Even local tributes like the NFL Class tribute reflect how road safety ties into every community narrative.
How to Stay Safe
If you’re navigating Myrtle Beach’s risk-prone intersections, take these steps:
- Use GPS apps to avoid peak times
- Don’t rely solely on signage,many areas lack clarity
- Watch out for sudden stops, especially near George Bishop Parkway
- For emergency prep, follow updates from the American Public Works Association and local traffic departments
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach’s most dangerous intersections are more than black spots on a map,they’re everyday hazards that demand attention. Whether you’re a student, a worker at a North American headquarters, or a tourist, being informed is your first defense.
But if you’ve already been injured in a crash at one of these intersections, you deserve answers, accountability, and compensation.
About Ted Law firm
Ted Law Firm proudly stands with injury victims across the Palmetto State ,from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, Columbia, and beyond. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. Our team is committed to fighting for South Carolinians injured due to unsafe roads and reckless drivers. Your story deserves justice. Contact us today for a free consultation
