The 8 Most Dangerous Roads in the US
Driving can be stressful; at times, even dangerous. However, certain roads in the United States are notorious for their high accident and fatality rates. If you live in the United States and plan on driving, make sure to avoid these ten most dangerous roads, as they have been rated some of the most perilous in the country. If you must travel these routes, use extreme caution.
1. Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile stretch of road that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the country, but it also might be the most dangerous highway in the U.S. Potholes plague the route, and there are no shoulders for pedestrians or cyclists.
There have been numerous fatal accidents and even more non-fatal accidents. If you’re planning on driving the Overseas Highway, take extra caution.
2. Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina
The Tail of the Dragon is one of the most popular and well-known roads in the U.S. for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts. The road is 11 miles long but has 318 curves. It’s one of the most dangerous, with an average of one death per year.
In 2019 alone, 93 vehicle accidents were reported, most of which involved motorcycles. It’s essential to be extra careful when driving on this road and always to stay alert.
3. Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado
Pikes Peak Highway is one of the most dangerous roads in the U.S. With a length of just over 19 miles, it has an average road grade of 7%. This makes it one of the steepest and most treacherous roads in America.
The Pikes Peak Highway is also known for its hairpin turns, which can be deadly for drivers who are not paying attention. Despite its dangers, the Pikes Peak Highway is also one of the most beautiful roads in America, with stunning views of mountain peaks and valleys. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, this is definitely the road for you. But be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart.
4. Skyline Drive, Colorado
Colorado makes the list again, with another of the country’s most dangerous roads: Skyline Drive. It’s a scenic drive with only one lane and no guardrails. It runs about three miles from U.S. Highway 50 to a neighborhood by Canon City.
The road boasts gorgeous views and notable history, including a fossilized dinosaur trail from more than a million years ago. But if you take this drive, be prepared to drive slowly and try to go during the daytime.
5. I-95, Florida
I-95 is considered one of the deadliest roads in the U.S. for a multitude of reasons:
Location: It runs along Florida’s east coast, which is notorious for heavy traffic.
Length: At 1,919 miles, it’s one of the longest highways in the country.
Design: There are many curves and turns, which can lead to accidents.
Surface: It’s often very slippery and wet due to the humidity in Florida.
Weather: Tropical storms and hurricanes often hit Florida, making driving conditions very dangerous.
Drivers: Many people who drive on I-95 are not from Florida and are unfamiliar with the road.
6. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic routes in the country, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. With winding roads and sharp drop-offs, the parkway can be a treacherous drive.
In 2019, there were over 349 crashes on this route, ranging in severity from slight fender benders to fatalities. If you’re planning a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains, be sure to take extra caution when driving on this road.
7. Interstate 70, Colorado
Interstate 70 is a transcontinental freeway that runs from Utah to Maryland. In Colorado, the scary road is particularly treacherous because of its many twists and turns. The high altitude also makes it more difficult to see potential hazards on the road.
8. Dalton Highway, Alaska
The Dalton Highway is a 414-mile road that runs from the Alaska-Canada border to Deadhorse, Alaska. Some call it the “ultimate road trip,” while others call it the “loneliest road on earth.”
Due to its path, it’s traveled steadily by large trucks that toss rocks up from the road. It also has a lot of steep grades that pose a considerable risk during inclement weather. Not to mention the zero visibility that arctic weather can provide.
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Understanding the Dangers
These dangerous roads are usually well-traveled, which can cause more accidents. Each of them has its unique attributes, however, that you should be aware of when driving it. Some are dangerous because of sharp curves and steep inclines. Others are treacherous because of unique weather conditions.
Take these roads carefully and stay alert. If you have had an accident, though, be sure you know your rights. Whether or not the accident was your fault, it’s important to protect yourself and your interests. Contact an injury attorney at Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys for a legal consultation immediately following any accident.
Sources
C., K. (2022). Drive Skyline Drive.
Chávez, K. (2020). Beware of deadly wrecks on Blue Ridge Parkway during fall leaf season.
Donnelly-DeRoven, C. (2021). Tail of the Dragon: Slow down or get a ticket if you’re driving through this 11-mile strip.
Filosa, G. (2021). Driving down the Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys? What to know about your trip.
Kemp, L. (2020). Cycling Pikes Peak: One Of The Hardest Climbs in America.