Madera County, CA – After a tragic accident claimed another life on Avenue 12 in Madera County, residents are voicing their concerns about road safety. Describing it as both “dangerous and deadly,” they are calling for immediate changes to prevent further tragedies.
Eileen Wells, a resident of Madera County, expressed the fear that many locals feel daily. “Wondering what we are going to wake up to, wondering if our loved ones make it home,” she said, highlighting the anxiety that the community endures.
Last Friday, the fears of these residents were realized when Brittany Robbins lost her life in a collision with a big rig on Avenue 12. Her death is a painful reminder of the road’s perilous nature, echoing the experiences of others like Christina McWethy, who was severely injured in a Madera County accident on the same stretch of road two years ago.
McWethy’s life was permanently altered by that crash. “Somebody just crossed the double solid yellow line, came and hit me head-on, and I got trapped in the car and had to be taken out with the jaws of life,” she recalled.
Now confined to a wheelchair, McWethy continues fighting to regain her mobility and advocates for immediate road safety improvements. “How many lives have to be lost?” she asked, voicing her frustration and pain.
In response to the growing concerns, Madera County Supervisor Jordan Wamhoff confirmed plans to enhance safety on Avenue 12. “We have plans to improve Avenue 12, and those have been in the works for a few years. Construction is expected to start in the second half of next year,” he explained. The planned upgrades include expanding the road from two lanes to four, adding turn pockets, temporary signals, and resurfacing certain sections.
Despite these assurances, many residents, including McWethy, feel these changes are overdue. “Why didn’t something happen before my accident? After my accident? All the people in between my accident and now could still be living,” she lamented.
The planned construction, slated to begin next year, will take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Our hearts go out to the families and individuals affected by the tragedies on Avenue 12. These incidents are a stark reminder of the need for prompt action to improve road safety. Let us hope that the planned improvements will prevent future losses and bring peace of mind to the community.
