Every year over 100 people lose their lives on Utah’s roads. If you have read online articles regarding traffic safety, you have probably heard that the largest risk factor has to do with distracted driving. Over half of all traffic accidents are caused by someone operating a vehicle without giving full attention to the road. The main culprit is, of course, using a cell phone behind the wheel. Distractions can also occur because someone is eating, talking to fellow passengers, or changing their stereo music. This article, however, is not going to address the leading causes of traffic accidents. Instead, we would like to address the most dangerous roads in Utah. We hope that by addressing these roads, we will all take extra care when traveling on them.
The Most Dangerous Roads in Utah
Interstate 15
Commonly known as I-15, this is by far the most traveled highway in the state. This spanning road system allows people to travel to the most northern and southern tips of the state. I-15 is a convenient way for people to travel to the state’s most populated cities, including Ogden, Salt Lake City, Provo, and down to St. George. Utah Highway Patrol states that in 20% of all life-ending car accidents, people were not wearing seatbelts at the time.
Risk factors on I-15
- Many areas allow for high-speed driving. This includes areas where speed limits reach 75 to 80 miles per hour.
- This freeway can have large traffic congestion spots, especially during rush hour times when people are traveling to and from work.
U.S. Route 89
This is one of the oldest highway systems in Utah. It was established in 1926 and is considered the second most dangerous road in our beehive state. This roadway is known for its frequent twists and turns, requiring attentive driving. Highway 89 spans more than 500 miles from Arizona to Logan, Utah. Drivers need to be aware of the dangers of head-on-collisions with cars and trucks going in the opposite direction.
Interstate 80
This is the only transcontinental highway in Utah. It runs from San Francisco, California, to New York City. This road claims the 3rd most lives every year, spanning almost 160 miles of our state going east to west.
Risk Factors on I-80
- The highway passes right through the “spaghetti bowl” section of our freeway system. This is an area prone to accidents and high levels of traffic congestion. Remember, the more cars on the road; the more traffic accidents will occur.
- This highway also has sections where speed limits can be elevated in some areas up to 75 miles per hour. The faster vehicles are traveling; the more likely resulting car crashes are going to be fatal.
- Areas of this highway can have severe weather conditions such as rain and snowfall. There are several sections where animal migration and crossings are frequent.
