As a truck driver, you are aware of the risks associated with being on the road, including bad weather, mechanical problems, lack of sleep, and a long list of others. However, the route is among the riskiest things a trucker might encounter while travelling.
Many roads and highways in the United States may make for a perilous voyage for truckers, but the five mentioned below the top the list of the country’s most hazardous roadways. When your route puts you on one of the most hazardous highways, it is crucial to be ready with the necessary equipment and supplies. You should also be sure to periodically check the weather before setting out on your journey.
1. Dalton Highway in Alaska
The Dalton Highway in Alaska must be included on any list of the most hazardous roads in the United States. Only 3 little settlements are encountered along the 414-mile gravel and dirt road that winds through some of Alaska’s most desolate terrain. There are few gas stations, rest areas, or eateries along the road. There is a 240-mile span when none of these can be found.
As a result, if you want to drive along Dalton Highway at any time, plan for a significant portion of your trip without access to a petrol station or rest area. This route should only be taken with utmost caution and planning since it is not for the faint of heart.
2. Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) in Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado is another of the worst highways for truckers. Around 25 miles of hilly, treacherous curves are on this portion of U.S. 550 in Colorado, which runs from New Mexico into the state.
This route is hazardous since it contains cliffs, small lanes, and places lacking guardrails. This makes it an extremely challenging and dangerous route for your truck. Given that it is the only north-south roadway in that region of Colorado, it could be important to proceed but go with extreme care.
3. I-45 in Texas
Contrary to the first two routes mentioned above, Interstate 45 is risky owing to its large number of fatal collisions, particularly in the Houston region. This is because the road passes through isolated or hazardous terrain.
The highway is notorious for having significant congestion, and there have been more accidents due to breaking traffic regulations, such as texting while driving. Please be careful and keep safe when driving on any road, especially this one.
4. U.S. 1 in Florida
For the same reason that I-45 tops the list—the number of fatalities—this roadway in Florida is among the most hazardous for trucks. Although many believe that winter driving increases the risk of accidents, this is certainly not the case on Florida’s Highway 1.
Along its 545 miles of length along Florida’s eastern coast, U.S. 1 undoubtedly has fewer hazardous places than others. However, it is crucial to be ready to react to an accident if you are in one or to prevent them from happening in the first place.
5. I-15 in Nevada
The majority of the reason it is on this list is due to a 181-mile stretch of I-15. Due to the high incidence of deadly traffic accidents, the route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is regarded as one of the deadliest.
Unfortunately, this route has an upsurge in drunken driving, speeding, and seatbelt violations. You should be prepared to drive defensively when on this route. Watch out for unpredictable drivers who could be intoxicated or those trying to get through traffic quickly.
While many more might easily be included on the list, these are some of the most hazardous highways in the United States. Many things, such as rough terrain, bad weather, or reckless driving on the road, might make a trip hazardous. When driving, never forget to use caution and awareness.