A 2022 study found that Florida’s Interstate 95 (I-95) is the most dangerous highway in the United States due to its high traffic fatality rate, utilizing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to enforce these claims. This alarming data has caused many to question why this stretch of highway is so deadly and how it can be made safer for travelers. Let’s explore the causes of this problem and what can be done to reduce fatalities on I-95.
3 Causes of High Fatality Rates on I-95
While it’s important to acknowledge that I-95 extends far beyond just Florida, residents and visitors in this state may face an unusual amount of activity when on this road. Here are just three of the many factors that contribute to the Florida stretch of this interstate being significantly dangerous:
1. Population Density
This study’s analysis revealed several potential factors associated with high fatality rates on I-95. One factor is that I-95 runs through heavily populated areas with many drivers and commuters, such as Miami and Jacksonville, which have 6,265,000 and 1,330,000 in population, respectively. With more cars, unfortunately, comes more accidents. So these densely populated areas often see some of the highest fatal crash rates in the state.
2. Driver Behaviors
It’s also important to acknowledge the role of driver behaviors. In areas of high congestion, most drivers cannot afford to make even minor mistakes, as they can quickly become a domino effect, so having less skilled drivers on the road can definitely make an impact.
Several news outlets consistently hail Miami and other Florida cities as having some of the worst drivers in the country, citing speeding, disobeying traffic laws, and other aggressive driving behaviors as some of the top reasons. With this kind of reputation, it makes sense why drivers on I-95 would be more prone to collisions than in other places.
3. Safety Reinforcement
Furthermore, several stretches of road along I-95 lack guardrails or other safety measures designed to protect drivers from dangers along the sides of highways or roads. These open stretches create potential hazards for drivers who may not be able to control their vehicles if they swerve off course for whatever reason. Additionally, there are often long stretches without any exits between popular tourist destinations like Daytona Beach and Fort Lauderdale, meaning that help may not arrive quickly if an accident occurs on these parts of I-95.
All of the above factors contribute to making I-95 one of America’s deadliest highways to drive on.
What Can Motorists Do?
Though it can be a daunting task, there are still ways to make highways like I-95 safer for drivers. Here are some tips that every motorist should follow when driving on any highway:
- Make sure your vehicle is in safe working order and is regularly inspected by a certified mechanic. Worn-out brakes or faulty tires can put you and other drivers at risk.
- Follow the speed limit and obey traffic laws. Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents on highways like I-95, so keeping a steady speed when driving on them is important.
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Oftentimes, motorists become complacent when driving on highways and fail to notice obstacles or other vehicles in their vicinity. Staying alert is essential for safety.
- Don’t drive if you’re tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make mistakes that could lead to accidents, so it’s important to get a good night’s rest before hitting the road.
Ultimately, if you’re involved in a crash caused by someone else, you have a right to seek compensation for your injuries. By working with an experienced Daytona Beach personal injury firm, you can ensure you receive the compensation needed to seek medical attention and recover lost wages.
Politis & Matovina, P.A. has recovered over $200 million for our clients since 1993. Our entire team is dedicated to ensure you receive the best possible representation and the maximum compensation possible for your case. Call (386) 333-6613 today to request a free consultation.