Road Safety Alert: Two Arizona Highways Flagged as Among the Nation's 'Most Dangerous'
Interstate 17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff is the 4th-most dangerous highway in the country, according to Teletrac Navman’s report - as 103 lives were lost across 146 miles of road. But as discouraging as this report might be initially, there is some good news - plans are in place to mitigate this serious situation.
Don’t Underestimate Arizona's Risky Roads
Arizona had two roads in the top 10 most dangerous in the country. Coming in at No. 9 was Interstate 19 from Nogales to Tucson, averaging .623 deaths per mile of roadway; I-17 had .707 deaths per mile. As the saying goes, "knowledge is power," and that's why it's true that understanding traffic patterns can help reduce fatalities and accidents.
The Growing Population Factor
Tracey Ketch with Teletrac Newman said Arizona's growing population may play a role in the high death rates. As the population has grown, so has the number of drivers; some unfamiliar with the area. When you think about it, raising awareness about these deadly stretches could lead to changes in driving habits, making the roads safer.
One Fatality Is Too Many
When you think about it, Alberto Gutier, director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, has a point; understanding the gravity of fatalities on the road is crucial. Curves and mountainous terrain can create potential dangers—leading to major problems in case of accidents. As the saying goes, "better safe than sorry," and this is why it's true that staying extra careful on dangerous roads is more than essential.
An Accident Lawyer: Your Ally in Tough Times
Believe it or not, car crashes can be overwhelming, both emotionally and legally—and this is where Surprise car accident lawyers come in, offering invaluable assistance when dealing with the aftermath of a car crash. They can help navigate the legal process and make sure that everything is in order for you to receive proper compensation and support. Some were truly surprised when they realized how helpful car accident lawyers can be in handling the miscellaneous aspects of a car crash case.
Plans for a Safer Future
Transition is afoot; Arizona is planning to relieve some of the pressure on these roads. Flex lanes are planned to extend all the way up to Sunset Point. The hope is, this alleviates the bottleneck that can form along the highway, especially during weekend escapes from Phoenix. Construction is set to be completed this year (2023), addressing the challenges faced on these risky roads.