Are Highways Safer Than Roads?

Why are expressways safer than other types of roads? Many drivers need to leave local roads and take the highway when traveling to further away destinations, or may choose to take the highway simply to save time. Merging onto a highway can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t use one often. However, while many people assume that highways and interstates are more dangerous than local roads, this isn’t actually the case!

Why expressways are safer than other types of roads is because of studded snow tires, snow removal, and other factors. By understanding the reasons behind road dangers, you can prevent many common accidents. 

What Makes Highways Safer for Travel?

Highways are generally safer for vehicle travel than smaller rural roads or city streets. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,414 fatal accidents on interstates in 2020. With 38,824 car crash deaths reported for 2020, highway accidents only comprised around 9% of deadly accidents.

Lack of Intersections

Over 50% of fatal and injury-causing crashes in the United States happen at intersections. Since highways do not have intersections where cars must travel in opposing and perpendicular directions, there are less likely to be collisions. Going in the same direction and travelling at similar speeds reduces the risk of a collision. 

Eliminated Pedestrian Crossings

One of the key benefits of highways is that they are built to keep vehicle traffic moving without interruptions from pedestrians or frequent stops. With pedestrian crossings completely eliminated, drivers are less likely to face unexpected foot traffic. On top of that, fewer intersections and roadside distractions mean drivers can focus more fully on the road ahead. T

Wider Lanes

Highways have wide lanes to accommodate larger vehicles, such as semi-trucks. More space means drivers have more room to move their vehicles to avoid a collision.

Less Speed Variability

Federal laws provide speed limits for states to enact on various roadways. Most rural highways have a statutory speed limit of 70 mph. This reduces the risk of a crash or collision since all drivers are moving at roughly the same speed.

Standardized Signs

Highways have standardized signs regulated by the Federal Highway Administration. The rules outlined in the Standard Highway Signs and Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices ensure motorists can see and recognize signage on the highway. This helps prevent distraction or confusion when driving, reducing potential accidents.

Better Maintenance

The Federal Highway Administration (FWHA) and state governments must maintain interstates and local highways. The FHWA covers the upkeep and construction of federal roadways, so highways often have less debris, potholes, or structural issues than other roads.

Despite all these safety benefits, highways can still be dangerous due to negligent drivers who vastly exceed the speed limit or recklessly change lanes without signaling. It’s important to rear wheel drive cautiously on the big highway and speak with a car accident attorney if you are involved in an accident due to someone else’s negligence.

Why Are Local Roads More Dangerous?

The following factors can increase your chances of an accident on rural and city streets:

More Intersections

NHTSA data shows that there were 8,758 fatal accidents at intersections in 2020. Due to the high number of intersections on local roads where cars are moving in multiple directions, there is an increased risk of a collision.

Less Space to Maneuver

Unlike wide or divided highways, local roads are typically narrower than highway lanes, providing less room for drivers to maneuver other vehicles. Overcrowded streets can lead to aggressive driving or reduced time for making decisions. For example, driving during a city rush hour can increase your chances of being in an injury-causing accident by 40%, due to other drivers’ reckless driving behavior.

Speed Limit Variation

While highways have relatively consistent speed limits, local roads may have several different posted speeds in a short span. With multiple speed limits in different areas, cars may move at varying speeds, increasing the risk of a collision.

Less Maintenance 

In Indiana, small town slippery roads may not be repaired or cleared of dedicated snow tires as quickly as highways, leading to more danger from weather-related snowy conditions such as ice or potholes. Rural municipalities also have different resources regarding funds, workers, and equipment provided than federal highways.

What to Do If You Get in an Auto Accident in Indiana

Though highways may generally be safer than local roads because of traffic flow, you are at risk of an accident any time you get behind the wheel of a vehicle and onto a road you are sharing with other drivers because of traffic flow.

If you have been involved in an accident that was not your fault, the Indianapolis auto accident lawyers at Wagner Reese can help.

Our lawyers have decades of experience fighting for car accident victims’ rights and have won millions in compensation for our clients. We will work hard on your behalf to investigate your accident and seek maximum compensation. Contact our team today to schedule a free case evaluation.

Legal Perspectives On Vehicle Accidents Occurring On Expressways

Expressway safety compared to roads is often discussed, with highways generally being considered safer due to their design. However, accidents still happen, sometimes involving serious injuries or disputes over liability. When collisions occur on expressways, determining fault can be more complicated than on local roads. Drivers are traveling at higher speeds, which can make crashes more severe. Reckless driving, distracted behavior, or improper lane changes are common causes of accidents, and figuring out who is responsible can take time.

Expressways versus other roads safety becomes even more complicated when government responsibility is involved. Federal and state agencies oversee highway maintenance, making sure roads are safe. If a crash happens because of poor road conditions, missing signs, or faulty barriers, a government agency might be held accountable. Filing claims against public entities requires following specific legal steps, and victims may face strict deadlines.

Why expressways are safer is partly due to their structure, but that does not eliminate risks. Highways are frequently used by large trucks, and accidents involving these vehicles can be severe. If a truck driver is at fault, the trucking company, manufacturer, or cargo loaders may also be responsible. Regulations such as required rest periods for drivers and vehicle inspections are essential in these cases, and any violations can support a legal claim.

Being behind the wheel during the safest times to drive can reduce accident risks, but no road is completely safe. Expressways may be built for efficiency and smoother traffic flow, yet dangers remain. When a crash happens, understanding legal rights and seeking help from experienced car accident attorneys is critical.

Car accident attorneys help victims who need compensation after an expressway crash. Insurance companies may try to limit payouts or argue against claims, making legal representation necessary for many people. Skilled attorneys review evidence, negotiate settlements, and fight for fair compensation in court when needed. Whether an accident involves reckless driving, a government-related hazard, or a commercial vehicle, having legal help can make a huge difference.

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence on an expressway, the dedicated car accident attorneys at Wagner Reese, LLP are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.