The Deadliest Highway Stretches in California
David Muñoz | August 10, 2022 | Car Accidents
California’s roads and interstates are notoriously busy and often top the list of the most dangerous places to drive. Considering the enormous number of motorists on the road at any given moment, this is no surprise.
In California, a route may be regarded as “hazardous” for various reasons, such as its condition, how straightforward it is to navigate, or other drivers’ known poor driving habits.
Whether you’re a California resident or just visiting as a tourist, it’s crucial to be aware of some of the state’s riskier roadways and use caution when driving on them. It might just help you avoid a car accident.
State Route 99
According to recent research, California’s State Route 99 is the nation’s most hazardous route. This was calculated by looking at how frequently deadly vehicle accidents occur on different roadways around the country. Route 99, the “winner,” had more than 62 fatal collisions every 100 miles.
Sierra Highway in Los Angeles County
Another one of the deadliest highway stretches throughout California is a 3.51-mile segment of the Sierra Highway in Canyon Country. Motor vehicle accident reports show that there are nearly 2.85 fatalities per mile over this three-mile stretch.
California Highway 1
The longest road in California, California Highway 1, is 656 miles long and travels along the state’s coast. But this route’s small, twisting sections are as dangerous as they are picturesque.
The vistas regularly cause drivers to become distracted while driving, and rain can occasionally trigger mudslides and rockslides. Some motorists have catastrophic accidents when they go off the road since it runs beside high cliffs.
How to Stay Safe on Dangerous Highways
You may take the following actions, among others, to be safe on high-risk highways:
Don’t Drive While Impaired
Drunk driving is a serious issue on highways and city streets. In the United States, one person per 45 minutes dies in an accident involving drunk driving, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Of course, drinking alcohol isn’t the only way to impair your ability to drive. Using drugs (like marijuana) or driving while tired may be fatal for motorists, passengers, and drivers alike.
Avoid Driving in Dangerous Conditions
Take some time to check the weather before you get on the road. Smartphones, smartwatches, and other linked gadgets have made getting the most recent weather prediction more straightforward. Avoid driving during periods of bad weather, such as during heavy fog or downpours.
Skip Rush Hour
It’s generally not a good idea to make your trip on the interstate during the peak of the weekday rush hour. The same goes for picking a wide, six-lane roadway for your first driving experience.
Instead, carefully consider the timing of your trip. Try to pick a local roadway that isn’t very broad or congested. The peak period for highway traffic, known as “rush hour,” often occurs between 8 and 10 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Refrain from Driving at Night
In addition to having less vision while driving at night or in the early morning hours, these times are more likely to have intoxicated or tired drivers on the road.
Beware of Using the Left Lane
The left lane has more accidents than any other lane on a roadway. Stay in the center lane if you’re on a three-lane highway unless you’re passing another car or your exit is close. If the road has two lanes, unless you are passing, keep to the right.
Contact a California Personal Injury Lawyer if You Need Help After a Car Accident
California has many deadly highway stretches. You may be entitled to compensation if you’re in an accident on one of these roadways. A personal injury lawyer can help you recover money for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact Mission Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation to discuss your car accident claim. We serve all of San Diego County and have multiple office locations in Southern California.
Contact the San Diego Car Accident Law Firm of Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.
We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032
We also serve the state of Texas. Contact our personal injury law office in El Paso for legal assistance today.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000
