The Most Dangerous Highways In California

Accidents and mishaps happen on interstates, highways, and residential streets across America. Several factors make this true. They include:

• Traffic congestion
• Construction
• Diverse weather conditions
• Distracted drivers
• Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Poor road conditions

While these are conditions that affect all of us, some highways are better than others. Our car accident attorneys will share with you some California highways that are considered the “most dangerous.” This information may help you decide on a different route while traveling and potentially keep you and your family safe.

Highway 99

Highway 99 is not only the most dangerous highway in California; it was rated by Value Penguin as the most dangerous highway in the nation. Between 2011 and 2015, there were 264 fatal accidents on this highway, which runs between the Central Valley. The small stretch of Highway 99 that passes near Fresno accounts for approximately34 of those fatal accidents alone.

State Route 138

This section of highway is nicknamed “Death Trap Highway.” It runs from the western Mojave Desert to the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The road is steep and twisting. Though the state is working on reducing the deaths on this highway, there are more than 10 fatalities annually.

State Route 12

This is another highway that is notoriously known as one of the most dangerous highways in the country. Nicknamed “Blood Highway,” the death toll associated with this part of highway is staggering. State Route 12 is a beautiful scenic route that runs between Rio Vista and Lodi. There is a lot of semi-truck traffic on this highway combined with too many blind spots, and the danger level is high.

Highway 17

People who must travel on Highway 17 regularly call it “a mess.”Highway 17 runs from Santa Cruz to San Jose. The state urges drivers to slow down during peak hours so they can see dangerous road conditions before accidents occur. The following issues are just a few of the hazards:

• Sharp turns
• Blind spots
• Heavy traffic
• Narrow shoulders
• Wildlife that wanders onto the highway

The way the road twists, there are times that you will come up on an accident with little warning. It pays to be cautious.

What You Can Do

Of course, accidents happen everywhere. But it is a good idea to know the reputation of the highway you are traveling on, so you can prepare yourself for any issues. When you are forced to use a highway that is rated as one of the most dangerous roads in the nation, take it seriously. Be sure you obey all traffic laws. Slow down! The faster you travel, the less time you have to change the outcome of a situation. Wear your seat belts and make sure children are in their proper car seat or booster seat.

Driving with caution means driving defensively and being aware of the other drivers on the road and their behaviors. Keep your distance, so you have room to avoid an accident if other drivers are distracted or impaired. Following the speed limit and wearing your seatbelt is for your own protection and the protection of less cautious drivers.

If you are injured in a car accident on one of these dangerous highways, contact a car accident attorney today.