The Most Dangerous Roads in Europe
Europe is filled with treacherous roads that will send shivers up your spine, and Travel Tipsor has identified some of them, indicating their annual deaths and mortality rate per 10 km. Bulgaria, Poland and the Czech Republic boast some of the worst roads for truck drivers; yet progress is being made as evidenced by Norway, Portugal and Greece who all experienced 40% reductions in fatal truck collisions in recent years.
1. RCEA-RN79
Europe offers stunning landscapes that make road trips an excellent way to experience its entirety, yet not all roads are created equal; some may prove dangerous and present new challenges even to experienced drivers.
The RN 79 road in France stands out as an especially dangerous one; so much so, that its dangerous reputation earned it the derogatory name "Highway to Hell." Its unique combination of sharp curves, narrow lanes and heavy traffic has earned it this moniker.
Norway's Trollstigen Road is another treacherous highway that requires complete concentration while driving. This mountain pass features tight turns, steep drops and sudden weather changes which challenge even experienced drivers to navigate safely. Furthermore, this route is notorious for its icy conditions which result in its closure during wintertime.
2. D512
The D512 is one of Europe's most treacherous roads and requires full concentration from drivers. Also known as The Widow Maker, its steep surface was even used as part of James Bond's film Goldfinger! Situated in England's Peak District and featuring numerous sharp bends.
Even though most roads in Europe are safe to travel on, some can be more hazardous than others. Below, Alfa Rent a Car's Cluj Napoca airport car rental office showcases some of these more hazardous roads.
Bulgaria, Poland and the Czech Republic have some of the most hazardous roads for truck drivers, according to a study conducted by smart payment provider SNAP. 40% of fatal HGV collisions within Europe occur on rural roads - suggesting improvements should be made for road safety infrastructure.
3. RN79
Though modern cars are safer than ever before, road accidents still occur for various reasons such as poor asphalt quality, missing or damaged road signs or dangerous roadways.
RN79 is one of those terrifying roads that requires extreme caution, not for those of faint heart or who lack concentration. The mountainous road is narrow with no safety shoulders or guard rails and sharp bends which take drivers directly along cliff edges.
At times of bad weather, driving this scenic highway may become hazardous. If renting a car to travel along this route, make sure your excess insurance covers any damages you might sustain along the way.
4. E87
Though modern vehicles come equipped with more safety features than ever, driving on certain roads remains hazardous. Accidents occur due to speeding, drunk driving and poorly maintained roads - among other causes.
Truck driver safety on the road depends heavily on road quality and location; recent research indicates that Bulgaria, Poland, and Czechia feature some of Europe's most perilous roads for truckers.
Even experienced drivers can be startled by some of Europe's scariest roads, like Norway's Atlantic Road. With its numerous curves, dips, and bridges requiring total concentration to navigate safely; additionally it closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Europe is full of roads that require drivers to pay complete attention while traveling. While some are simply too treacherous for drivers to tackle safely, others offer thrilling experiences. When traveling solo or with college friends it is always wise to remain safe on the road and have someone available in case of an accident; that is where dguard eCall comes in handy.
Russia and parts of the Middle East boast some of the world's most hazardous roads, while Norway, Switzerland and southern Sweden boast some of the safest ones. Drivers should remain extra cautious when driving on these roadways and consider all defensive driving techniques as part of their routine - for more tips and advice visit Sensor's blog or our rental car guide in Europe!