by John G. Miller

MANAGING EDITOR

Excuse me if there are some typos in today's column. It's a little difficult to type with a banged-up left hand and shoulder.

That's why I haven't written much this week. My left side is moving in slow motion.

But I don't want pity. I just want them to do something about Emily Drive.

Yep. I'm the latest casualty of the area's booming retail center with its road from Hades.

I was involved in one of the four accidents on that road last Saturday.

Reports on radio and in a neighboring newspaper on the "serious" nature of my injuries were a little overblown. "Serious" conjures up a picture of me on a hospital bed with tubes and stuff. I've been at work most of the week -- just can't type as well without causing great pain. Hopefully I'll heal.

Hopefully, they -- meaning the state and the city of Clarksburg -- will do something about that road, because it's downright dangerous.

From the blind spots to the high volume of traffic, it's just become treacherous.

The city has posted its speed trailer and patrols in that area to help combat speeders, but there still needs to be more traffic control devices or the prohibition of left turns or something.

I've seen -- and now been a participant in -- too many accidents out there. I'm told it's not unusual to have multiple accidents there on weekends. And now that school's out, the traffic volume seems to have increased.

A number of columnists here -- including myself -- have written on the topic before, and we've been told by state and city officials that something will be done. But when?

How many more accidents will happen before positive steps are taken?

I'm told that traffic lights with interconnects -- that would put the lights in proper sequence -- could be a remedy. I'm told that those types of lights would allow for a smooth flow of traffic because if the first light stops you, then you'll have clear sailing the rest of the way.

I'm not sure about that. But there has to be a way to allow for safer travel to what has become a great shopping destination, with many fine stores and restaurants.

State and city officials need to do something. The problem isn't going away. It's getting worse.

I'm living proof -- thankfully.

John G. Miller is managing editor of The Exponent Telegram. He can be reached at 626-1473 or by e-mail at jmiller@exponent-telegram.com.