Anyone who’s spent much time on the road in Florida knows how crowded and dangerous driving in the Sunshine State can be, particularly on highways. Now we know the numbers back that up, as a recent study shows how dangerous highway driving in Florida is – and that one particular interstate is the deadliest in the entire United States.
So, what is the most dangerous highway in Florida? According to the insurance policy shopping website Assurance, it’s Interstate 4. Assurance looked at crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to determine which roads had the highest and lowest numbers of collisions (adjusted for length), with a focus on fatal car accidents. The Assurance study found that I-4 had the highest number of fatal accidents per 100 miles, at 34. The interstate with the next highest number of fatal crashes per 100 miles was I-35E in Texas, at 27.9.
Other Dangerous Highways in Florida
While the data suggests that I-4 is the deadliest highway in Florida, many other highways see significant numbers of injuries and fatalities. Some of the other most dangerous highways in Florida include:
- US-1 – While it’s not the most dangerous highway in Florida, this highway stretching along the Atlantic coast is known for its heavy traffic and high-speed limits. The mix of local traffic, tourists unfamiliar with the area, and sections of the road that are not well-lit at night contribute to its danger.
- I-10 – Running from Jacksonville to Pensacola, I-10 spans the entire width of northern Florida. Its long, straight stretches can lead to high-speed driving and a phenomenon called “highway hypnosis,” where drivers become less attentive to what’s happening around them.
- I-75 – This interstate is a major route for travelers heading to and from South Florida, including the busy Tampa Bay area and Naples. I-75 is notorious for its congested traffic, especially during peak travel seasons. Frequent, abrupt weather changes can suddenly reduce visibility and traction for drivers, creating conditions that lead to crashes.
- I-95 – Stretching along the eastern seaboard of the U.S., I-95 passes through several major Florida cities, including Miami, West Palm Beach, and Jacksonville. The combination of high-speed traffic, numerous exits and entrances, and a high volume of commercial trucks makes I-95 particularly perilous.
Why Are These Roads So Dangerous?
Interstates and highways present unique dangers compared to other roads due to their high speed limits and traffic volume. The fast pace of traffic requires quick decision-making, which can be challenging for drivers, especially under poor weather conditions or in heavy traffic. Moreover, these roads often see a mix of different vehicle types. This includes large commercial trucks, which are especially dangerous in the event of a collision.
Additionally, long stretches without significant changes in the scenery can lead to distracted driving and driver fatigue, which compromises alertness and reaction time. Finally, complex highways with multiple lanes exits, and entrances can confuse drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with the area.
Reach Out to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Pensacola, FL, Today
If you suffered injuries in an interstate accident in Florida, the Pensacola accident attorneys at Cardoso Law, PLLC, can help protect your rights and fight for your maximum compensation. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with our personal injury attorneys.
