Which Philadelphia Highway Has the Most Accidents?

Nobody should have to go through a car accident. Unfortunately, thousands of drivers face this frightening reality on a daily basis – and in many cases, the scene of the crash is a highway. With so many drivers fighting for a spot on a busy, high-speed road, an accident is likely to occur. However, some of Pennsylvania’s highways are more dangerous than others, which poses a greater chance for a crash. Some of the state’s most dangerous highways pass through or around Philadelphia, such as I-76 (or, as it’s locally known, the Schuylkill Expressway). The Conshohocken car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Fishman invite you to read on as we discuss I-76 and some of the other most dangerous roads in Philadelphia.

Most Dangerous Highways in Philadelphia

Three of the most dangerous highways in Philadelphia are I-76, I-95, and US-1 (Roosevelt Boulevard). Keep reading to find out what makes these roads so hazardous.

Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)

I-76 is notorious for the long waits during rush hour and a large number of vehicles that go through it every day – upwards of 160,000 in Philadelphia County alone. This highway is also known for the large number of accidents that take place on it every year. The highway’s questionable conditions, like frequent congestion and construction – along with aggressive, careless drivers – make I-76 a particularly dangerous road to travel.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), I-76 is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the country. Over the years, fatal Schuylkill Expressway accidents have included a Pennsylvania bus accident that killed two people in 2013, and a tractor-trailer crash that caused 3 fatalities in 2000. A total of 999 passenger vehicle accidents occurred on the Schuylkill Expressway in 2012 alone.

I-95

If you have ever driven your car on I-95, you know how bad the traffic can get. Much like I-76, I-95 is often used by thousands of drivers every day. Drivers have to share the aging, narrow interstate highway with other commuters and travelers. This makes I-95 dangerous since so many drivers have to share such limited space.

I-95, also named the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway, has been the site of many traffic fatalities and even more nonfatal injuries in Pennsylvania. During the period from 2011 to 2013, there were 13 or more fatal accidents on I-95 between the Ben Franklin Bridge and the border of Delaware, and 16 or more fatal accidents between the bridge and I-276 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike) to the north.

US 1 (Roosevelt Boulevard)

US 1, or Roosevelt Boulevard, is among the most dangerous roads in the country. The road’s design is what makes it particularly dangerous. Areas of Roosevelt Boulevard are comprised of six lanes in combination with sharp curves. One of the most common causes of crashes in this area is speeding. Many drivers disregard the speed limits, which often leads to severe accidents.

Common Causes of Highway Accidents

While many people are responsible and attentive while driving, the actions of others may put their safety at risk. In particular, motorcycle accidents and truck accidents happen because of another driver’s error. Here are some of the most common causes of highway accidents in Pennsylvania.

DUI

DUI (driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol) is a significant concern when it comes to car accidents. Under Pennsylvania law, people cannot operate a motor vehicle if they are under the effects of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. However, many disregard the law entirely and engage in drinking and driving. According to PennDOT’s 2017 Crash Facts and Statistics Report, drunk drivers caused more than 9,000 accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is also a common cause of car accidents on highways. Potentially everything happening around you while driving could be distracting. Things like receiving a text message or making a phone call can prevent you from paying full attention to the road. During 2017, distracted driving caused more than 15,000 crashes, as stated by PennDOT’s report.

Speeding

Speeding is the most significant contributing factor in car accidents. PennDOT’s 2017 report estimated more than 30,000 speed-related crashes. While speeding by itself is a dangerous cause of highway accidents, combining speed and alcohol can be especially lethal. This is evidenced by the report mentioned above, which stated that speed and alcohol are responsible for most fatal crashes.

Common Injuries in Highway Car Crashes

People who are involved in car accidents can suffer from a wide range of injuries. If you were hurt in an auto accident, you should speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer about your options. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, common injuries in car crashes include brain injuries like concussions, neck injuries like whiplash, and back injuries like herniated discs.

Head injuries

Head injuries are common during car accidents. The forces and momentum present during a car crash can cause a person to lose control over their body. Therefore, is likely for a person to hit their head against parts of the car like the windshield or the steering wheel. Objects in the car can also strike the person’s head. This can lead to concussions (which are a form of traumatic brain injury), contusions (bruising), and other serious head injuries.

Neck Injuries

During a car accident it is common for a person to experience whiplash, which is a type of neck injury. This commonly happens as a result of a sudden, unrestrained back-and-forth movements of the head. This can cause stress on the muscles around the neck, which can lead to a whiplash injury. This type of injury is known for creating pain in the neck and shoulders, and sensation of pins and needles. Whiplash can also cause headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.

Back Injuries

Back injuries commonly happen as a result of a sudden forceful impact. Injuries can damage the spinal column (backbone), spinal cord, or both. Car accidents often lead to different types of back injuries such as herniated or bulging discs, paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries (SCI), and other complications.

Conshohocken Car Accident Lawyers Offering Free Consultations

The consequences of a car accident can be devastating for the victims and their families. However, there might be a way to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or someone you love was injured in an accident due to the negligent actions of another driver, you need legal representation. For a free, confidential legal consultation, call Jacobs & Fishman at (610) 941-4250, or contact us online.