There are a number of factors that play into why an automobile crash happens. While we most often think of driver negligence, there are instances where road conditions or ambiguous traffic signs can contribute to an accident. Whether you mostly drive around town or have a long, daily highway commute to work, it’s important to be aware of where the most dangerous spots are for travel. This awareness may help you avoid situations that could result in a wreck.
Dangerous Highways
While an accident can happen anywhere, highways are uniquely dangerous because of the high speeds at which people are traveling, the prevalence of tractor trailers, and the significant amount of traffic overall. The following highways are considered the most dangerous in Pennsylvania based on data collected by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
- Interstate 95/76 Interchange. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), where I-95 interchanges with I-76, also referred to as the Delaware Expressway, is one of the deadliest roads in the United States. The chaotic traffic around Philadelphia and under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge is frequented by aggressive, speeding drivers.
- Interstate 83. I-83, which in Pennsylvania is called the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Memorial Highway or the Susquehanna Expressway depending on the area, enters the state by crossing the Mason-Dixon line and runs north towards York. This highway becomes particularly dangerous near Harrisburg, where traffic is often congested and construction is frequently happening.
- Interstate 80. I-80 is the longest east-west interstate in Pennsylvania. Many accidents are attributed to poor road conditions like potholes, crumbling roadways, and overcrowding. This is a popular highway for tractor trailers. The curves and winding mountains can cause visibility issues, especially in inclement weather or at night.
- Interstate 79/70 Interchange. For drivers who are unfamiliar with the interchange at I-79 and I-70, the tight U-shape, or hairpin, turn can quickly lead to an accident at high speeds.
- Interstate 78. I-78 sees a high number of tractor trailers. Many of the accidents resulting in fatalities involve these large trucks. Construction zones also play a role in the accident rate.
Dangerous Intersections
Intersections present their own dangers because people tend to make right-of-way errors or are more likely to drive recklessly by running red lights or ignoring yield or stop signs. The following roads see a significant number of accidents and fatalities every year, when compared to the roadways throughout the rest of the state.
- Roosevelt Boulevard. While this road doesn’t have a specific intersection that is the most dangerous, there are high accident rates at intersections along this stretch in Philadelphia. This road travels six lanes in both directions and reckless drivers frequently travel much faster than the posted speed limit. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area often turn into the wrong three-way, which creates a dangerous situation for everyone around them.
- Knights Road/Street Road Intersection. Located in Bensalem in Bucks County, the intersection of Knights Road and Street Road is one of the most dangerous in the United States. The intersection’s unusual shape, along with poor lighting, aggressive drivers, and confusing traffic signs, contributes to the crashes and deaths that take place every year.
Dangers Associated With Rural Roads
Rural roads are prevalent in Pennsylvania. While our cities are surrounded by fast-paced and jammed highways, a big part of our state is made up of small towns and countryside. There are unique dangers associated with driving on rural roads that people may not think about. Keep these dangers in mind the next time you get behind the wheel:
- Road conditions can be rough and change frequently
- Drivers should be aware of farm vehicles and livestock crossing areas
- Deer are prevalent in wooded areas
- Safety barriers may be missing
- Cell phone reception can be poor
- Some roads present difficulties when trying to be accessed by emergency responders
- Some drivers are likely to speed in areas where traffic is light
While driving through rural areas can be less stressful than trying to maneuver your way around a city or keep up with traffic on a cramped interstate, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that all types of roads and environments present.
At Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco, we understand how challenging it can be to recover from an auto wreck and return to work. If your crash was caused by another driver’s negligent actions, we’re prepared to fight for you. Contact our lawyers when your ready to file your claim and seek compensation for what you’ve been through.
