Drivers: Intersection is accident waiting to happen

Who's responsible: Maryland State Highway Administration
Number of votes to fix: 2

Rockville drivers report confusing markings on eastbound Nicholson Lane at the corner of Rockville Pike have nearly resulted in a number of near collisions. At the intersection, there are three lanes on Nicholson: the left one is for turning left or going straight, the middle one is for going straight only and the right one is for right turns onto 355.

Griper Kris wrote that because of the "odd line of sight" drivers in the middle lane often don't realize they should stay to the right as they cross the intersection because cars on the left are going straight also.

"I've almost been hit and/or flipped off many times by drivers assuming they have the right of way and I was in a left turn only lane just trying to force myself into their lane," wrote Kris.

Another driver concurred: "I have had several near-collisions there."

Drivers said clear lane markings need to be painted on Nicholson through the entire intersections with Rockville Pike. Fortunately, the powers that be agree.

When contacted, Montgomery County officials initially thought the intersection was in their jurisdiction, but discovered later it was under state control. They investigated it anyway.

"The Maryland State Highway Administration has a work order to install lane line extensions," said Kenneth Hartman, director of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center. It's unclear exactly when the stripes will be added.