. These high-risk accident zones require extra caution from drivers,.
Texas has some of the most congested roads and highways in the country, especially around major metro areas like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin. With so many cars on the road, accidents are unfortunately common. Certain areas and stretches of highways see more accidents than others, and the accident rate for state highways in Texas is 230.49 per 100 million vehicle miles in urban areas and 91.12 rural areas, making them the most dangerous roads. These high-risk accident zones require extra caution from drivers, with 10 people dying each day on Texas roads.
Dangerous roads in Texas for truck drivers
Some of the most notorious high-risk zones for trucks include:
- Interstate 45 between Houston and Dallas – This busy interstate sees heavy traffic volumes and frequent wrecks, especially around rush hour near major cities. The stretch near Corsicana is particularly dangerous, and I-45 is widely noted as the deadliest road in the US – stats record 56.5 fatal accidents per 100 miles. Truck accidents are common on I-45, and the best Texas truck accident lawyer can help if this happens to you.
- Interstate 35 through Austin – Austin’s section of I-35 has been called one of the most congested highways in the country. The traffic and accidents back for miles during peak times, and in 2018, there were 20,401 crashes on I-35.
- Interstate 10 from San Antonio to El Paso – Large trucks and uneven terrain make this remote stretch of I-10 prone to collisions. Windy conditions and dust storms also contribute to crashes. The accident rate for I-10 is 4.3 fatal crashes per mile between 2018 and 2020.
- Highway 83 from McAllen up through Laredo – High speed collisions and rollovers are common issues on this highway that runs near the Mexican border. Changing weather conditions and reckless driving may be factors. In 2021, there were 13 crashes on this stretch of road, two of them fatal.
Any highway in West Texas through to Far West Texas sees high speed collisions due to remote roads, few exits and loose animals. Roads near Odessa and Midland have some of the highest fatality rates in the state.
Tips for staying safe
When driving through high-risk accident zones in Texas, follow these tips to stay safe:
- Allow extra following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you more time to react and brake
- Pay attention to speed limits and reduce speed if conditions call for it. Speeding is a major factor in Texas wrecks, with 162,214 speeding-related accidents recorded in 2022
- Avoid distractions like cell phones. Focus on the road and scanning for hazards
- Make sure you and all passengers are wearing seat belts. They are the best defense in a crash
- Don’t drive impaired. DUI is another leading cause of collisions in the state – 43% of fatal accidents are caused by drunk drivers
- Watch for stopped or slow traffic ahead. Significant speed differences between lanes can lead to rear-end crashes
- Look for signs warning of accident-prone zones like “High Crash Area.” Adjust your driving accordingly
- Be prepared to take evasive action or pull over in hazardous weather like storms, fog or dust
- Get regular maintenance and check your tire pressure to keep your vehicle in safe driving condition
Call a Texas truck accident lawyer for help
Always speak to a vehicle accident lawyer if you’re involved in a collision in Texas. They can help you get compensation for your injuries.
Staying focused and alert, following traffic laws, and driving defensively can go a long way in avoiding an accident, even in high-risk zones. Pay attention to warnings for problem areas and adjust your speed and following distance accordingly. With caution and smart driving habits, Texans can navigate these dangerous roads more safely.
