The Most Dangerous Highways in Alabama
All highways have the potential to be dangerous. Indeed, anytime that a motor vehicle is traveling at high speeds, and certainly when reaching speeds of 65+ miles per hour, risk of a collision is increased. What’s more, not only does the risk of a crash increase the faster that a vehicle is traveling, but so does the risk of severe damages and injuries.
While an accident can happen anywhere, at anytime, and affect nearly anyone, some highways in Alabama have been deemed more dangerous than others. Here’s a look into some of the most dangerous highways in Alabama, tips for avoiding a crash, and what to do if you are harmed in a highway accident–
Where Driving in Alabama Is Most Dangerous
If there’s one place that’s especially dangerous to drive in the state of Alabama, it’s what’s called the state’s “Highway to Hell.” Dubbed as one of the most “unbelievably dangerous and spectacular roads in the world,” U.S. Highway 431–specifically the stretch that runs through the state of Alabama–isn’t a road worth driving. The road is particularly dangerous when compared with other highways due to:
- Poor visibility;
- Varying lane numbers (from two to four to back to two to one, etc.);
- Curves and turns;
- High speeds; and
- The fact that it cuts through towns and cities and is therefore not always separated from local traffic.
While the Highway to Hell may be the most dangerous road in the state, it’s certainly not the only dangerous road. Another especially treacherous stretch is the section of Interstate 59 which runs through Birmingham. There are fatal crashes reported on I-59 each year, with rollovers, multiple-vehicle accidents, and single-vehicle accidents all common.
An article published by the Daily Beast names a number of other highways in Alabama on their list of “Deadliest Highways: Ranking the 100 Interstates Most Likely to Cause a Fatal Crash.” Included on the list at numbers 33, 34, 61, and 71, respectively, are I-10, I-85, I-65, and I-20.
Avoiding a Highway Accident
The idea of being involved in a collision on the highway is terrifying. However, while there is nothing that can be done to control the actions of other drivers, you can improve your chances of staying safe by always operating your vehicle while well-rested, sober, and distraction-free. When circumstances warrant it, slow your speed. Further, always pay attention to others around you, and make room for aggressive and speeding drivers; getting out of the way is always a better option that being involved in a crash. For extra safety, be sure to always wear your seatbelt and make sure that all passengers in your vehicle are properly secured.
What to Do If You Are Harmed in an Alabama Highway Accident
If you or a loved one is harmed in a highway accident in Alabama, it is important that you understand what your rights and options are. When injuries are severe, seeking damages and recovering the amount that you deserve may be essential for well-being, treatment, and supporting oneself moving into the future.
Because Alabama is an at-fault car accident state, the driver responsible for the collision is also responsible for paying for damages. To get the compensation award that you deserve, you will need to prove that the accident would not have occurred but for the actions of the at-fault party.
At the law offices of the Alsobrook Law Firm, our experienced Alabama highway accident attorneys can help. We open a thorough investigation into all accident cases we take on, and work with accident reconstruction experts who are crucial in piecing together what happened. Not only do we gather all evidence, but we also build and file your claim, and negotiate on your behalf to get you the settlement you deserve. We are experienced litigators, and will go to court and litigate your case when a reasonable settlement cannot be reached.
To schedule your free consultation with our legal team after a highway accident, call us at 337-737-3718. You can also visit our Opelika office in person, or send us an email at your convenience.
