Planning a holiday in the US is probably one of the most exciting times for traveling lovers. For those living outside the landmass, it could even be a once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, planning ahead is definitely a must before embarking on such an adventure.
Given the financial efforts that may come into play, most travelers will want to experience and visit as much as possible. This is why it is very common that travelers will rent a car or even an RV in order to save time on transportation and gain the freedom to move from one place to another at any time and in any order.
Although we have progressed from reading road maps to typing in a destination on our phones, some roads will present hidden dangers that digital mapping services won’t prepare you for. Continue reading to learn more about some of the most dangerous highways in the USA.
Top 6 US Highways to Look Out For
Amongst some of the most compelling roads in the world hide some of the most dangerous. Although it is an intriguing combination, the latter may become problematic for drivers. In order to avoid turning your vacation into a less pleasant experience, here are some of the US highways you might want to avoid or particularly prepare yourself for:
U.S. 1 – Florida
The section of U.S. Route 1 in Florida has been recording the biggest number of fatalities for at least 10 years now. The highway just seems to take a wrong turn once it hits Florida. This 545-mile portion turned out to be the last stop for more than 1000 people. Whilst considered the “deadliest highway” in the US, Florida’s Route 1 proposes a combination of three main reasons behind its dangerous nature:
- High population
- Extreme crowding during the tourist season
- Some very old infrastructure
- Apart from that, once embarked on this road, there really aren’t many other ways to go.
U.S. 83 – Texas
Also known as the Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway, U.S 83 goes on for 895 miles on Texas territory. It is only of the many dangerous roads in Texas. Throughout the years, these roads have recorded more crashes caused by driving under the influence than the national estimate.
Another aspect that might cause a driver to take extra care on this highway is the extremely delayed intervention of the emergency medical services (EMS). Given the considerably lengthy roads, EMS will take longer to reach their destination.
I40 – California
Interstate 40, or the Needless Freeway, resides in California for about 155 miles. That’s a lot of time for dangers to occur, and they definitely have during the past years. Most crashes are caused by driving under the influence or distracted driving, however, the California climate is another recurring reason behind its hazardous roads. High temperatures will usually cause the roads to become sleek and put drivers in danger. Traffic congestion should also be something to keep in mind if I40 will be part of your road trip through California.
U.S Route 431 – Alabama
About 556 miles of Alabama roads are occupied by U.S Route 41, also known as “Highway to Hell”. The reasons for becoming a notoriously perilous road vary from poor infrastructure to high speeds and varying lanes. This particular road presents turners that may take even some of the most experienced drivers by surprise. There is very little limitation between highway conditions and passing through city traffic. Nevertheless, Route 431 is to be avoided if it’s not really necessary for your plan.
U.S. Route 24 – Ohio to Indiana
US Route 24 which stretches 77 miles from Toledo, Ohio, to Fort Wayne, Indiana is also one of the most trafficked and deadliest U.S. highways. It is an old route built in 1926, which hosts one of America’s deadliest stretches on a highway known as the “killway” because of the many fatal car accidents happening there.
In 2012, the 23 mile-long, two-lane stretch was significantly widened and improved which helped reduced the number of fatal accidents happening there by a sizable amount. But US Route still remains one of America’s most dangerous highways since it is still very trafficked by truck drivers transporting goods from Ohio to Texas.
The “killway” was notorious for the many “gruesome head-on collisions” between big rig trucks and other traffic participants at the so-called “dead man’s curve,” close to Defiance, OH. The death toll was so high in that area that the locals started wearing “Death No More on 24” T-shirts to raise awareness on the issue.
I-45 Texas
I-45 is considered the second-deadliest highway in the country (closely behind California’s Route 99) and Texas’ deadliest highway. It is unclear why driving on this roadway can get you killed, but the death toll is impressive: 56.5 deaths per every 100 miles. The most dangerous stretch lies in Houston, with 320 fatalities and 288 traffic collisions over just 14 years.
According to authorities, the top cause of fatal accidents on I-45 is terrible human behavior, such as texting while driving, drunk driving, speeding, and not paying attention to traffic signs. Congestion and heavy traffic are also some of the main culprits.
Bottom Line
No matter how dangerous a road may be, your chances of avoiding being involved in a car accident during a trip will always rely on safe and careful driving. Despite taking all the precautionary measures, an accident could occur because of another distracted driver on the highway. In such cases, make sure to be prepared for contacting a specialized lawyer.
An experienced attorney will help you navigate fault and liability laws in the state where the crash occured to help you build a strong case and get the compensation you are due. And if the accident left you with a permanent disability, a social security disability expert can assist you in tapping the necessary benefits to put food on the table when having a job is no longer an option. You can read more about social security disability and your rights in case of a major life-altering event here.
