Final answer:
The installation of a traffic signal is crucial for reducing vehicle speeds, enhancing pedestrian safety, and lowering the number of accidents at an intersection, especially in areas with increased traffic and commercial activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The importance of installing a traffic signal at an intersection can be underscored due to several critical factors. First, the presence of a traffic signal enforces vehicles to adhere to the speed limit, significantly reducing the chances of them speeding through. This ensures traffic is regulated and helps prevent potential accidents caused by drivers ignoring speed regulations.
Secondly, pedestrian safety is a paramount consideration. High foot traffic from students and other individuals across the intersection poses a risk when they are forced to navigate through moving vehicles. The installation of a traffic signal provides a structured and safe crossing path for pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents.
Finally, the escalation in the number of accidents at the intersection, some resulting in fatalities, highlights the urgent need for a traffic control mechanism. A traffic signal would contribute to managing the increased vehicle flow, especially with the recent rise in nearby commercial activity and changes such as the college rerouting traffic for events. All these factors combine to create a compelling case for establishing a traffic signal to ensure the safety and orderly flow of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.