Report: I-95 is Maryland’s most dangerous highway

Many Marylanders have varying opinions about where it is most dangerous to drive in the state. Pedestrians might say it is University Boulevard in Langley Park. On the other hand, many people in Baltimore might agree that Gwynn Falls Parkway and Reisterstown Road is the most dangerous intersection.

The opinions often depend on our own experiences. But are there really roads that are more dangerous than others that have more car accidents? A recent report says there is.

A study found the nation’s most dangerous highways

At the beginning of September, a study conducted by ASecureLife using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined what highways in each state were the most dangerous. And, the study found that Highway I-95 was the most dangerous road in Maryland, with 32 fatalities occurring on this stretch of road between the years of 2015 and 2017.

However, evidence shows that it is not only the most dangerous highway in our state. I-95 also ranked as one of the most dangerous highways in eight other states, including all the way down in Florida.

What makes a road dangerous?

There are quite a few factors that can make particular roads more dangerous than others, including physical road conditions, such as debris or potholes.

However, there are also two specific reasons that I-95 is so dangerous:

1. I-95 is the longest interstate in Maryland, reaching a length of more than 100 miles. The sheer length of the highway could play a significant role in the number of dangerous car accidents.
2. It is also one of the most traveled roads in the state, with a daily volume between 80,000 and 114,000 vehicles, depending on the specific location.

There is no doubt that a higher volume of vehicles can contribute to the risk of a collision and therefore an injury.

Individuals injured by reckless drivers can pursue compensation (Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings §11-108). However, all Marylanders must be aware of the risks they face, so they can drive defensively and stay safe on these dangerous stretches of road.