The great American road trip has been the subject of many a book, television show, and movie. It’s a concept that’s so deeply ingrained in our culture that almost all of us experience a version of the classic road trip journey at one point in our lives. Of course, most times we get behind the wheel or into the passenger seat isn’t quite as glamorous. Still, it can be easy to forget that the United States is home to some of the most dangerous roads in the world. Whether you’re buckling up for your commute to work or heading on a cross-country adventure, check out our list to see if you’ll encounter any of the especially dangerous roads on your way.
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Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway
Known for its natural beauty, Colorado is a nature lover’s paradise. With gorgeous peaks and stunning vistas, there is so much to do and see while visiting the Centennial State. To experience some of the region’s most stunning views, though, you’ll have to brave the Million Dollar Highway, a 25 mile-long stretch of Route 550 between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado. Built in the 1880s, the road has winding roads and no guardrails keeping you from lurching over the side of the mountain. If you’re heading to this particular region of Colorado, be sure to take it slow and keep your eyes on the road at all times. As tempting as the view might be, you won’t want to risk an accident here!
Houston’s I-45
Named the second-deadliest highway in America, this road averages 56.5 traffic fatalities every 100 miles. As a major backbone of the Houston area, this highway is heavily congested. Everything may indeed be bigger in Texas, including the number of people arrested for drunk driving. Other accidents are caused by speeding, distracted driving and operator errors. While there may not be much bad weather along this road, you’ll still need to pay close attention to changing traffic patterns.
Florida’s Interstate 4
Ranked the most deadly interstate in the country, this highway is not to be taken lightly. Its 132 miles stretch between Tampa and Daytona Beach, making it highly trafficked by tourists looking for some fun in the sun. Some theorize that the tourists themselves directly contribute to the number of accidents that occur on this road. Many fly into the area, rent a car and have trouble navigating when in a new vehicle. Distracted driving is a common problem in the Sunshine State, with texting and driving a secondary offense and talking on the phone while behind the wheel being perfectly legal.
South Carolina’s Highway 17
When you think of South Carolina, your mind likely goes to images of Spanish moss dripping from trees. That’s what you’ll see as you roll down the state’s Highway 17, considered to be one of the most beautiful and most deadly roads in the nation. While the surrounding forest and wildlife is indeed stunning, the road is plagued by sharp turns and plenty of deer and mountain lion crossings. You’ll have to keep your wits about you as you venture through this particular corner of the South!
Montana’s Highway 2
While heavy traffic can contribute to a road’s degree of danger, rural landscapes can be just as risky. In Montana, the stretch of Highway 2 between Butte and Three Forks is known to be incredibly treacherous. Its remote location and reckless behavior from motorists make the road one of the scariest places to be in an accident. The average response time for an ambulance in this region is about 80 minutes, which is a life-or-death length of time for an emergency situation. By keeping your speed at a reasonable level and avoiding reckless drivers, though, you should make it through unscathed.
Alaska’s James Dalton Highway
Imagine how bad a road would have to be for rental car companies to forbid drivers from taking their vehicles there. That’s the reality for the James Dalton Highway in Alaska. Plagued with gigantic potholes, racing winds, and subzero temperatures, it’s not a road that most folks will ever stumble upon. Of course, the natural beauty surrounding the highway on all sides somewhat makes up for the treacherous nature of this drive. Still, we wouldn’t recommend venturing this way unless you absolutely must.
After a Dangerous Accident
Whether you’re stranded in Montana or are sliding around on the icy roads of Alaska, Lawsuit Info Center can help. We can answer many of the questions you have about your accident and recommend what steps to take next. Our car accident settlement calculator can be especially useful for those looking into how much their case could be worth. We can also set you up with an experienced car accident attorney in your area to help you seek the justice you deserve. To get started, simply call 877-810-4067.
