Top 5 Most Dangerous Roads for Truckers
As a truck driver, you know the dangers of being out on the road – weather conditions, mechanical issues, lack of sleep, the list goes on and on. However, one of the most dangerous things that a trucker can encounter while on the road is the actual route itself.
There are various roads and highways across the U.S. that could present a treacherous journey for truckers, but the 5 listed below top the list as the most dangerous roads in the U.S. It’s important that when your route takes you on one of the most dangerous roads, be prepared with the proper supplies and tools and also be sure to check conditions frequently before starting your trip.
1. Dalton Highway in Alaska
You can’t have a list of the most dangerous highways in the U.S. without including Dalton Highway in Alaska. This 414 mile gravel and dirt highway travels through some of Alaska’s remote wilderness and only passes through 3 very small towns along the way. Gas stations, rest stops, and restaurants are rare throughout the route. In fact, there’s a stretch of 240 miles where you won’t find any of these.
So, if you’re planning to travel along Dalton Highway at any point, be prepared to not be able to access a gas station or rest stop for a significant stretch of your journey. This highway is not for the faint of heart – travel on this road with great care and preparation.
2. Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) in Colorado
Another one of the most dangerous roads for truckers is the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado. This section of U.S. 550, which stretches from New Mexico into Colorado, is a mountainous highway in Colorado that has dangerous twists and turns for about 25 miles.
The danger of this highway is that it has narrow lanes, steep cliffs, and areas without any guardrails. This makes it a very difficult and risky road to travel on in your semi. As it is one of the only north-south highways in Colorado in that area, it may be necessary to travel on, but be sure to do so with great caution.
3. I-45 in Texas
Unlike the first two highways listed above, Interstate 45 is dangerous not because of traveling through remote or treacherous terrain, but rather it is dangerous due to the amount of fatal crashes that occur on this road, specifically in the area surrounding Houston.
The highway is known for having large areas of congestion and has seen an increase in accidents due to disobeying traffic laws, like texting while driving. When traveling along any road, specifically this one, be sure to stay alert and stay safe.
4. U.S. 1 in Florida
This highway in Florida is one of the most dangerous trucking roads for a similar reason that I-45 makes the list – the number of fatalities that occur on this road. While many people associate winter driving with causing crashes, that is obviously not the case for Highway 1 in Florida.
Stretching along the entire east coast of Florida, U.S. 1 certainly has areas that are not as dangerous across it’s 545 miles. However, it’s important to be prepared to avoid accidents or respond to an accident if you do get into one.
5. I-15 in Nevada
There’s a 181 mile stretch of I-15 that is contributing most to it being on this list. The section from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is considered to be one of the deadliest because of the number of fatal traffic accidents.
Unfortunately, this road sees an increased amount of speeding, impaired driving due to alcohol, and failure to wear seatbelts. When traveling along this road, be prepared to do some defensive driving. Be on the lookout for erratic drivers who may be impaired or those looking to speed their way in and out of traffic.
While these are some of the most dangerous roads in the U.S., there are many others that could easily be on the list. Whether it’s remote terrain, weather conditions, or dangerous drivers on the road, there are a variety of different factors that can cause a route to be dangerous. Remember to be cautious and alert while on the road.
Want to learn more about how you can be a safe and responsible truck driver? Take a look at our truck driver training courses and get started on your trucking career today!