When you get behind the wheel of a car, there is a chance that you could have an accident. Unfortunately, the number of fatal auto accidents is on the rise. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2020 was the most deadly year on record since 2007.
There are many dangerous roads across the U.S. Unfortunately, some are far more dangerous than others due to several factors. If you are planning a cross-country road trip, you need find out more about the routes you will be traveling. It could save your life.
The states with the highest number of traffic deaths: California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Illinois, and Tennessee. While many states saw a decrease in accidents in 2020, numbers have been steadily rising. The state of Florida reported 396,492 collisions in 2022, making it again one of the most dangerous states for drivers.
Deadliest Roads
The following is a list of the 10 most hazardous roads across the U.S., according to NHTSA The data was compiled based on the number of vehicle deaths per 100 miles:
- The most dangerous road goes to the notorious I-95. It stretches from South Florida up the East Coast to Maine. According to 2019 statistics, there were 284 fatalities and 14.88 per 100 miles.
- I-20, which stretches from Columbia, SC through Atlanta, GA, Birmingham, AL and Dallas, TX. This highway recorded 208 fatalities and 13.52 fatalities per 100 miles.
- I-5 is the third most dangerous. It runs up the Pacific northwest from San Diego County all the way up through Seattle, WA. 2019 stats show 186 fatalities and 12.47 fatalities per 100 miles.
- I-75: This highway starts from Hillsboro County, FL and runs all the way up through Atlanta, GA to Detroit, MI. 2019 statistics show 237 fatalities and 13.27 fatalities per 100 miles.
- I-35: This dangerous stretch goes through three of the most populated cities in the U.S.: San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas, TX. 2019 show 197 fatalities and 12.56 per 100 miles.
What Makes these Roads so Dangerous?
Factors that put these highways on the list of the most deadly:
- Highly congested areas. Statistically speaking, when there are more vehicles on the road, the chance of accidents increases. Always pay attention when on the roadways, especially during rush hour
- Adverse weather. This always increases the likelihood of an accident. Roads in northern states are always more accident prone due to snow and ice.
- Sharp road turns. Driving on winding roads is a hazard. Focus and never speed around curbs.
- Blind intersections where you cannot see can be a real problem. Come to a complete stop at a stop sign so you can adequately see what you need.
- Poor infrastructure. Roads with plenty of potholes, cracks and missing guardrails can pose a serious risk to drivers.
If you end up having to drive on one of these stretches of roads, don’t panic. Drive defensively and follow the rules of the road. Once you learn how to drive with aggressive drivers and learn how to navigate dangers, you can protect yourself and other on the road.