America’s most dangerous roads present many hazards for truck drivers. The dangers don’t only come from road congestion and irresponsible drivers, which increase by the millions during holidays. Some roads and bridges are in poor shape, reducing the comfort of even the best semi-truck seats, and putting truckers in danger.
Where the Worst Roads Are
Based on Federal Highway Administration data, states from coast to coast rank with the worst road conditions. Examples include Connecticut, Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, California, and Kansas.
Among the states with the worst roads, some factors considered include:
- Bridge conditions: Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, and the densely populated urban areas of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut ranked high on the list—with Rhode Island at the top. Structurally deficient or functionally obsolete bridges present significant dangers to motorists, especially to truckers who drive much heavier, larger vehicles.
- Dangers/accidents: U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) data suggests the most dangerous roads in the country include I-10 in Alabama, I-95 in Florida, and Highway 75 in Idaho. Other dangerous thoroughfares included I-40 in Arkansas, US-1 in Florida, and I-80 in Nebraska. Roads in Maryland, Colorado, and South Carolina made the list as well.
Individual Highways to Avoid
Regardless of the types of truck seats and accessories you choose for your fleet, the most dangerous roads overall for truck drivers, based on DOT data, include:
- I-95 – Connecticut: Running from Maine to Miami, it runs through many metropolitan areas and is one of the nation’s oldest highways.
- I-10 – Arizona: This stretch of road running from Phoenix to the California border sees high traffic and lacks median barriers.
- I-15 in California/Arizona: A popular travel route to Las Vegas, this road has frequent drunk driving accidents and is known for low seat belt use.
- Dalton Highway – Alaska: Although it’s not among the busiest roads, the rugged terrain, one single fuel stop, and lack of emergency services make this route dangerous.
- US 24 – Fort Wayne to Toledo: A major commercial route, it has had numerous head-on collisions involving tractor-trailers. It’s still considered one of the most dangerous semi-truck routes despite being widened in 2012.
Truckers can maximize their safety by learning about these hazardous routes and using seats and truck interior accessories that can improve their comfort and awareness. Order with Suburban Seating & Safety online or call 844-727-7228 today.
