What makes US Route 13 in Delaware so dangerous?
The most dangerous highway in Delaware is US Route 13, according to a recent study conducted by Car Insurance Comparison that named the most dangerous highway in each state nationwide.
"Each state has dangerous highways, but some routes claim far more lives than others," noted the Car Insurance Comparison study, which added, "Knowing the most dangerous highways by state can help you prepare and stay safe."
US Route 13: Delaware's most dangerous highway
Car Insurance Comparison used several criteria to determine which highway is the most dangerous in each state. According to the study based on accident data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), US Route 13 in Delaware is the state's most dangerous highway.
Each year, on average, 13 people die in car accidents on Delaware's Route 13, which runs the entire length of the state from north to south. Traveling 103 miles, Route 13 passes through Dover, DE, and Wilmington, DE, along with many other cities between the Pennsylvania and Maryland border.
In addition, the Car Insurance Comparison study noted that I-95 (which passes through Delaware) is one of the deadliest interstate highways in the country. In 2019, in particular, 284 people died in car accidents on I-95, the highest death toll of any highway in the country.
What makes certain highways more dangerous than others?
Car accident deaths aren't the only reason why Route 13 in Delaware was rated the state's most dangerous highway. Car Insurance Comparison based its decision on several other factors, including:
- Heavy traffic – Highways with heavy traffic consistently have more accidents due to higher instances of reckless driving and road rage, according to Car Insurance Comparison.
- Hazardous weather – Areas that often have snow, sleet, ice, high winds, and other inclement weather have more highway accidents.
- Dangerous conditions – Highways with steep drops, sharp curves, and mountain passes statistically have more car accidents than those that don't.
- Outdated infrastructure – Confusing street signs, broken street lights, excessive potholes, and missing guardrails are common examples of outdated infrastructure often associated with highway accidents.
"The deadliest highways in America tend to share common features," Car Insurance Comparison stated.
Safety tips for avoiding a highway accident
Along with naming the most dangerous highway in each state, the Car Insurance Comparison study offered advice on how to avoid a highway accident. Such safe driving tips include:
- Plan ahead – Check the weather forecast and traffic conditions before heading out on a long road trip.
- Obey traffic laws – Follow the speed limit, use your turn signals, keep a safe distance between your car and other vehicles, and obey other traffic laws designed to prevent car accidents.
- Stay alert – Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Anything can happen at a moment's notice while driving on a highway.
- Avoid distractions – Don't text while driving or do anything that takes your attention away from the task of driving, including looking up directions while driving.
- Take a break – If you feel tired, take a break and get some sleep. Tired driving is a common cause of highway accidents.
Why should I hire a Delaware car accident attorney?
Highway accidents in Delaware might seem straightforward at first, especially if another driver caused your car accident. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Many times, the at-fault driver will deny doing anything wrong. Other times, it's insurance companies that are the problem and deny injury claims. Why? To save money since many car accident claims often add up to a lot of money.
Whatever the circumstances of your highway accident, our Delaware car accident lawyers at Gill, Welsh, and Chamberlain, P.A., can help you demand justice. We know the laws that apply to highway accidents. We understand how the legal system works. That's why we have such a strong track record of success.
Get a law firm that will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us and schedule a free consultation with a Delaware car accident attorney focused on winning your case.