by Orla Mullan
There have been calls for Transport NI to carry out a comprehensive survey at a dangerous crossroads junction outside Kilrea.
East Derry SDLP MLA John Dallat has raised the issue following a number of crashes and 'near misses' at Drumsaragh crossroads.
The latest crash, involving a car and jeep towing a trailer, happened on July 13.
Luckily, no-one was seriously injured in the collision at Edenbane Road.
Last night, John Dallat called on Transport NI to take action.
He said: "Drumsaragh crossroads has been the scene of far too many collisions and near misses over the years and for that reason I have asked Transport NI to carry out a comprehensive survey with a view to reducing the risk for accidents in the future."
He continued: "Clearly it is not for me to judge who is responsible for human error but I believe I have a duty as a public representative to influence Transport NI to carry out improvements which reduce risk and minimise the danger of death and serious injury. In this case there were injuries and thankfully not life threatening but nevertheless serious."
Mr Dallat says they are no warning signs to alert motorists to the crossroads junction on the busy road between Kilrea and Garvagh.
He added: "In addition road markings have faded to a point that they cannot be of any help to approaching motorists.
"I have also asked Transport NI to consider creating additional space to provide for turning right in both directions at this crossroads which I believe would be of enormous help in reducing collisions."
Mr Dalat concluded: "I would want to thank the emergency services who helped those in distress and took charge of the accident scene at the time. Hopefully. after discussions with Transport NI, Drumsaragh crossroads can be made a lot safer for everyone and not least people who are living very close to this spot and are concerned that a future accident may impact on them or their children."
Last night, a spokesperson for Transport NI said: "The Department of Infrastructure is not aware of the circumstances of the recent collision and there has not been any previous request for improvements at the junction of Drumsaragh Road with Edenbane Road.
"However, department staff will consult with the PSNI to determine if any further road safety measures are appropriate at this junction."
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