California is the most populous state in the country with nearly 40 million residents. It might come as no surprise that the state’s highways are also among the most crowded with drivers. Unfortunately, as the number of drivers increases, the risk of a car accident goes up, too.
Based on information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), three of the country’s most dangerous highways run through California. When all the crash data from across the nation is aggregated, there were 1.37 traffic fatalities per 100 million miles driven in 2020. Each of these dangerous highways in California is far above that mark.
Three highly dangerous highways in California are:
- I-5: This famous highway that stretches from the bottom of California to the top of Washington is the worst in California. There are nearly 13.5 traffic fatalities per 100 million miles driven on the I-5 in an average year.
- I-15: Traveling from San Diego to Montana without worrying about traffic lights is possible by using the I-15. Along this highway, there are about 11 traffic fatalities per 100 million miles driven per year.
- I-40: To traverse the entire country west to east, drivers can use the I-40 – but it might put them in danger. On average, there are roughly 10 traffic fatalities per 100 million miles driven along this highway in a given year.
Although each of these highways crossed multiple states – they are technically ‘interstates,’ after all – the worst dangers along them tend to be located in California. The state’s large population and dense cities make driving there inherently riskier.
How to Drive Safely in California
The easiest way you can reduce your driving risks while in California is to literally steer clear of the I-5, I-15, and I-40. If you don’t have to take these highways for your vacation or daily routes, then you probably shouldn’t.
Another way to stay safe while driving through the state is also very simple: drive responsibly and defensively. Practicing good driving habits isn’t just a smart idea, it’s the right thing to do. You want everyone around you to be a safe driver, so you have to follow the golden rule of driving and drive how you want them to drive. When everyone prioritizes safety behind the wheel, we all win.
If you ever need help after a car accident in Los Angeles, San Diego, Ventura, and numerous other counties throughout California, count on Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation for tough legal counsel and representation. Contact us at any time to learn more.
