Traffic Troubles in Beaufort County: An Inside Look
Beaufort County has seen significant changes in recent years, with a sharp increase in population leading to more vehicles on the roads. This bustling environment contributes to the rising volume of traffic at key intersections, particularly at one notorious spot—the intersection of Robert Smalls Parkway and Savannah Highway.
As the sun rises over Beaufort, a dedicated group of firefighters from Engine Company 4 gears up for their 48-hour shift in their crisp blue and white uniforms. When you look closely, you can see the pride they carry on their shoulders: the elite Beaufort and Port Royal Fire Department crest on the left and the American flag on the right. Though today starts like any other, it’s their familiarity with the dangerous realities of their job that sets this crew apart.
A Dangerous Intersection
Located just a mile and a half from their station, the intersection of Robert Smalls Parkway and Savannah Highway has gained a reputation for being one of the most hazardous spots in Beaufort County. Over the years, it has become infamous for the number of serious accidents that take place there. According to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there have been 78 collisions at this intersection since 2020, leading to injuries for 53 individuals. That’s nearly 40% of the collisions resulting in injury, which is alarming.
The crew at Engine Company 4 is no stranger to these harsh statistics. They often discuss the grim reality of their calls as a routine part of station life. Just last month, they employed the Jaws of Life to free a passenger trapped in a mangled vehicle. Sadly, they noted that this intersection has been the scene of several tragic incidents over the years, including a mother and her step-son who lost their lives in a 2019 collision.
Why So Many Accidents?
When driving through Beaufort, it’s easy to see why this intersection is so dangerous: the combination of speeding and poor merging options play a key role. As vehicles exit the Broad River Bridge, many accelerate to speeds up to 100 mph—well above the posted 55 mph speed limit. This rush is compounded by the absence of an acceleration lane coming off Savannah Highway, creating a perfect storm for tragic accidents.
A Day In the Life
Each shift brings a familiar rhythm for the crew—checking equipment, ensuring everything is in order, and often responding to multiple car crash dispatches. On average, they receive three to six calls per shift for car accidents. When the alerts come, the firefighters spring into action, each performing their roles with practiced precision. Lt. Matt Domanowski, the crew leader, shares that the training is so ingrained that there is almost a “second nature” to how they respond to emergencies.
When they receive a call from the treacherous intersection, that instinct sharpens. Sometimes, instead of calmly suiting up, the crew races toward the engine, keenly aware that they might encounter a very serious situation. Domanowski aptly notes, “We know it’s going to be bad. We know the damages will be significant.”
Coping with the Chaos
The emotional toll of these incidents can be heavy, but the crew leans on each other for support. They understand that on such days, they need to talk through what they’ve seen, sharing the weight of their experiences. “It takes a toll,” they collectively acknowledge, but their camaraderie is their strength. Each debrief following a call is a chance to decompress and reflect on how they can improve for the next emergency.
As the day rolls on and another dispatch alters their plans—a diabetic emergency at Walmart, not another car crash—the crew jumps back into action, lights and sirens blazing once again. They remain dedicated to their mission, ready to “protect life and property” as stated on their fire truck.
With traffic continuing to swell in Beaufort, this brave crew of firefighters knows their job isn’t getting any easier. But they’re committed to their service, prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead, reminding themselves every day that they truly can make a difference.
