Dangerous Travel Times & Places for Drivers in the U.S.

Car accident fatalities continue to be a great threat when traveling along our highways. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently reported that approximately 32,675 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2014. In other words, one person died every 16 minutes. The Auto Insurance Center reviewed data from NHTSA’s “Fatality Analysis Reporting System” and made some eye-opening conclusions regarding the persons most at risk, the deadliest time to travel, and the most accident-prone interstates and states.

Auto Accident Attorneys

After reviewing five years of government crash reports, it was determined that the deadliest days of the year are July 4, New Year’s Day (just after midnight), and Labor Day weekend. On average, approximately 100 deaths occur on these dates each year. Additionally, though the reason is unclear, August 2nd and 27th are consistently just as deadly each year.

The safest time on the road is during the early morning hours. While the deadliest time of day on the road appears to be related to the evening commute traffic, with the 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. rush hour being the biggest threat. This remains the case even though Saturday remains the most dangerous day of the week, with Friday and Sunday following behind. Summer road trips mean more drivers on the road, many of whom travel long distance with little sleep and little knowledge of the area around which they are traveling. Thus, the months of June, July and August are the deadliest months of the year.

The top 5 deadliest highways were reported as being:

  • Interstate 10
  • Interstate 95
  • Interstate 40
  • Interstate 75
  • U.S. 1

Florida drivers should take note because 4 of the top 5 deadliest highways run through the State of Florida. In addition to the highways, Wyoming, Mississippi and Montana were reported as having the most traffic accident-related deaths per capita. The top causes of fatal car accidents remain: failure to wear a safety seat belt, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and speeding.

In conclusion, the following suggestions have been made:

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Do not drink and drive.
  • Maintain the speed limit.
  • Use extra caution (or avoid) when traveling during rush hour, weekends and the summer months.
  • Avoid travel or exercise extreme care when traveling on July 4th, New Year’s Day and Labor Day weekend.
  • Drive safely and with care when traveling on I-10, I-95 and I-40.

Tampa Car Accident Law Firm

The Capaz Law Firm handles a variety of personal injury claims, including those arising from accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, semi trucks, tractor trailers, 18-wheelers, commercial vehicles, bicycles and boats and other watercraft. If you have suffered an injury due to the negligence of another driver, contact our knowledgeable Tampa accident injury attorneys at the Capaz Law Firm. We will review your claim and determine the best course of action for holding all negligent parties accountable. Call 813-440-2700 for a free legal consultation.