I-93 in New Hampshire Tops List of Deadliest Highways

New Hampshire car accident lawyers explain risks drivers face on highways.

According to a recent nationwide traffic safety study conducted by Car Insurance Comparison, Interstate 93 in New Hampshire has been identified as the deadliest highway in the state. This study ranked the most dangerous highways in every state across the country.

"Although there's always a chance of being involved in an accident, some roads are more dangerous than others. Every state has a highway that claims the most lives," the Car Insurance Comparison study says.

Interstate 93 in New Hampshire rated the most dangerous highway in the state

Based on several different measures, researchers at Car Insurance Comparison ranked I-93 in New Hampshire as the most dangerous highway in the state. This major highway runs north to south through some of the state's largest cities, including Manchester, NH and Concord, NH.

I-93 in New Hampshire starts at the Massachusetts-New Hampshire state line in Salem, NH, then heads north 131 miles before crossing the Connecticut River into Vermont near Littleton, NH.

The study, which analyzed various accident data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), revealed that I-93 in New Hampshire witnesses an average of six fatal car accidents annually.

What makes certain highways more dangerous than others?

Along with car accident fatalities, Car Insurance Comparison decided which highway is the most dangerous in each state based on several other factors, including:

Highway infrastructure

The condition of the roadway significantly impacts its safety. Outdated infrastructure, such as potholes, missing guardrails, and unclear traffic signs, can contribute to accidents and fatalities.

Traffic congestion

High traffic volumes increase the likelihood of accidents due to factors like reckless driving, road rage, and impaired drivers. The congestion on certain highways amplifies the risk of collisions.

Weather conditions

Adverse weather conditions, including snowstorms, ice storms, heavy rain, and high winds, pose additional hazards on highways. These conditions decrease visibility and traction, leading to an elevated risk of accidents.

Road conditions

Highways characterized by challenging road features such as steep inclines, sharp turns, and mountain passes are prone to more severe accidents. These conditions demand heightened driver skill and attention, contributing to the increased risk of fatalities.

Common causes of highway accidents

In addition to the factors highlighted by traffic safety experts, several other reasons contribute to frequent accidents on highways like I-93 in New Hampshire, including:

• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. Speeding motorists often struggle to slow down or stop in time to avoid collisions.
• Aggressive driving: Tailgating, or following other vehicles too closely, is a common behavior among aggressive drivers. This behavior heightens the risk of rear-end collisions, particularly on highways where speeds are higher.
• Reckless driving: Erratic maneuvers such as weaving in and out of traffic lanes or sudden lane changes without signaling create hazardous conditions on highways, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Distracted driving: Drivers who engage in distractions like texting, browsing their phones, or attending to other activities while behind the wheel pose a significant risk to themselves and others on the road.
• Fatigued drivers: Driver fatigue, especially common during late-night hours on highways, can lead to drowsy driving and even falling asleep at the wheel. Fatigued drivers are less alert and have slower reaction times, making them more prone to accidents.

Injured in a highway crash? See how a car accident attorney can help

If you've been injured in a highway crash in New Hampshire, navigating the legal aftermath can be overwhelming. Our car accident lawyers at Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, P.A. can provide invaluable assistance during this challenging time.

From investigating the circumstances of the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing legal action if necessary, our dedicated legal team can guide you through every step of the process and fight for the financial compensation you deserve.

Put your trust in a law firm that's been fighting for New Hampshire's injured for over 150 years. Contact us and schedule an appointment. We can meet with you in one of our offices in Dover or Portsmouth or another location that's convenient for you.