In 2021, over 40,000 lives were tragically lost in car accidents across the United States. That number is staggering and even more shocking when you consider that some roads consistently have far higher accident rates than others. Many people never return home from road trips because of crashes along these dangerous stretches of highways.
These danger zones aren’t a secret. From interstates that cross the entire nation to specific intersections within major cities, there are places where the risk of an accident dramatically increases.
While knowing about these trouble spots can’t prevent every accident, being informed empowers you to drive more cautiously. You can make adjustments and be extra vigilant in areas known for their high crash risk.
America’s 5 Most Dangerous Highways
The following highways see shockingly high numbers of accidents, putting drivers in constant peril. It’s vital to know where the danger zones are, so you can drive with extra caution or avoid these routes if possible.
1: I-95
If you’ve ever driven I-95 through Florida, you know it’s an intense experience. Traffic moves fast, lanes are crowded, and exits often appear suddenly. Sadly, it’s not just stressful; I-95 holds the grim title of the most dangerous stretch of highway in the entire United States. In 2019, it saw a staggering 284 fatalities, with 14.88 deaths per 100 miles.
The sheer volume of traffic is a significant factor. I-95 carries massive numbers of cars between major Florida cities and up the East Coast. More cars drastically increase the chance of an accident. This stretch of I-95 saw nearly 50 times more fatalities than the average highway mile. To put it in perspective, driving through I-95 at 60 miles per hour means passing one fatal crash every 2.6 seconds.
Some of Florida’s I-95 exits could be better designed for the speed and volume of traffic. They have sharp turns that surprise drivers, especially tourists who are unfamiliar with the area. Add in distracted driving, which is common in a vacation hotspot like Florida, and you have a recipe for disaster.
Drivers juggling rental cars, GPS navigation, and passengers must entirely focus on the road. That’s why I-95 consistently ranks high in accidents across the entire state of Florida.
2: I-64
When you think of dangerous roads, bustling cities might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, I-64 has become a significant hazard in St. Louis, Missouri, due to poorly designed intersections and distracted driving. Intersections like Grand Boulevard, where a considerable street crosses I-64 with outdated exits and confusing signals, are hazardous.
These dangers have real-world consequences. According to TorHoerman Law, car accident fatalities in St. Louis, Missouri, increased from 196 to 228 between 2015 and 2017. This region sadly accounts for around 24% of all car accidents in the state. The problem stems from many exits built decades ago when traffic was far lighter. Confusing or missing signs force drivers into last-minute lane changes, often leading to crashes.
Crashes on I-64 in St. Louis are tragically common. As recently as February 29th, 2024, a collision at North Tucker Boulevard and Convention Plaza, just blocks from The Dome at America’s Center, left one person dead and two others injured.
These accidents can change lives in an instant. While many car accidents are resolved with on-the-spot settlements, some St. Louis crashes lead to legal battles. Disagreements over fault, damages, severe injuries, and insurance claims can make these situations even more complex.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a St. Louis car crash, an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can help you fight for fair compensation. Of course, the best way to stay safe is to be aware of the danger zones on I-64. Avoid peak rush hour, be extra vigilant at exits, and never drive distracted on this hazardous stretch of highway.
3: I-20
I-20 cuts a massive path across the Southern US, presenting drivers in Texas and Georgia with a dangerous mix of big-city congestion and long, rural stretches.
Unfortunately, both ends of this spectrum present unique risks. In West Texas, the relentless heat can make drivers drowsy. Combined with high-speed limits, this leads to slower reaction times, causing accidents.
Further east, the seemingly endless rural stretches of I-20 can lead to boredom and distracted driving. If a crash happens in these remote areas, help might be miles away.
As you head east of Dallas, the dangers shift dramatically. Traffic explodes, with sudden lane changes and stop-and-go conditions frustrating drivers. This can lead to aggressive maneuvers and a higher risk of crashes.
4: I-5
I-5 is California’s lifeline, connecting major cities, cutting through farmland, and winding over mountain passes. Sadly, this vital route is also the site of many crashes. The dangers shift depending on your location. In urban areas like Los Angeles and San Diego, I-5 traffic is chaotic, with sudden braking and drivers weaving between lanes posing a constant threat.
Visitors unfamiliar with California’s aggressive driving style can worsen matters, especially near popular attractions. While California has cell phone laws, I-5’s congestion often leads to bored drivers. Checking cell phones at the wrong moment can have tragic consequences on this dangerous highway.
5: I-75
I-75 connects snowy Michigan down to sunny Florida. Sadly, this north-south route also sees many serious crashes, mainly due to treacherous weather conditions.
In Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky, “lake effect” snow can dump in massive amounts quickly. This turns I-75 icy, reduces visibility, and often leads to pile-ups. Even when roads look clear, freezing temperatures can create invisible black ice. This causes drivers going too fast to lose control, even on seemingly safe roads.
The dangers worsen on I-75’s rural stretches up north. Blizzards can leave drivers stranded with nowhere to pull off, creating dangerous situations.
FAQs
Which Country Has the Most Dangerous Roads?
Bolivia has the most dangerous roads. Its “Death Road” (Carretera a los Yungas ) is the most dangerous road in the world, known for its narrow paths, cliffs, and lack of guardrails.
What Is the Most Famous US Road?
Route 66 is likely the most famous US road. Known as the “Mother Road,” it originally stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles, symbolizing westward migration and opportunity during the early 20th century. Route 66 has been immortalized in songs, movies, and literature, cementing its place as an American icon.
What Is the Highest-Speed Road in the USA?
The highest-speed road in the USA is a portion of Texas State Highway 130. This toll road near Austin, Texas, has a posted speed limit of 85 mph (137 km/h), the fastest legal driving speed on any road in the United States.
Is There a 100 Mph Speed Limit in Texas?
No, there is no 100 mph speed limit in Texas. The highest legal speed limit is 85 mph, and it is only found on a specific portion of Texas State Highway 130. Driving at 100 mph would result in significant speeding violations and penalties.
America’s highways can be dangerous places. According to USA Today, car crashes are the leading cause of death for people aged 1 to 54 in the United States. It means a staggering 14.3 motor-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Certain roads, from Florida’s I-95 to the interchanges of I-64 in St. Louis, Missouri, consistently have high accident rates. That’s why everyone must drive responsibly, especially on these dangerous stretches. Slowing down, avoiding distractions, and anticipating other drivers’ mistakes can save lives.
