The Deadliest Highway Stretches in Florida

Bill Allen | January 30, 2024 | Car Accidents

The Deadliest Highway Stretches in Florida

Florida has 19 highways running throughout the state, but a few short segments stand out for a grim reason — they account for a staggering number of fatalities per year. So, where are the deadliest highway stretches in Florida, and what makes them so dangerous? 

The Deadliest Stretches of Highway in Florida

Located in Pasco County and just outside of Fort Lauderdale, US-19 experienced the most fatalities in Florida per mile, with the majority taking place along the stretch from San Marco to Denton Avenue. Within just three years, this part of the road witnessed 73 deaths, averaging nearly 25 fatalities per year. 

Unfortunately, US-19 isn’t the only dangerous road in the Sunshine State. 

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these are some of the other deadliest highways in Florida:

  • US-41 in Bradenton: From 30th Avenue East to Pearl Avenue, this stretch of highway sees an average of 20 fatalities per year
  • I-95 in Boynton Beach: In the four-mile stretch between Hypoluxo Road and Woolbright Road, this highway receives an average of 4.3 accidents per mile
  • I-95 in Fort Lauderdale: With an average of 17 fatalities per year, the segment of highway between Exit 27 and Exit 32 also experiences a higher volume of crashes

These shocking statistics can be frightening, but several factors can help explain why these roads are so hazardous.

Why Are Some Florida Roads More Dangerous?

Car accidents can happen at any time and place, so what makes some roads more susceptible to crashes? While driver behavior is often the biggest factor in car accidents, some environmental factors can make a road more dangerous, including:

Poor Road Design

Not all roads are well-designed. Some have flaws that make them more challenging to navigate safely, even when drivers are alert and responsible. 

A few examples of poor road design include:

  • Blind corners
  • Sharp turns
  • Narrow lanes
  • Lack of guardrails
  • Confusing signage
  • Poor drainage

Being aware of how a road’s design influences safety can make it easier for you to identify hazardous situations and adjust your driving accordingly.

Traffic Volume

Areas with more drivers naturally experience more wrecks — but they also see a higher percentage of accidents. 

If a road has a high volume of traffic on a regular basis, congestion is a commonality that leads to all sorts of problems:

  • Distracted Driving: Especially if the line of cars is moving slowly, drivers may be more inclined to distract themselves by taking out their phones or fiddling with the stereo
  • Tailgating: Congested traffic results in cars being much closer together than they would be otherwise, leaving drivers dangerously close to other vehicles
  • Illegal Driving Maneuvers: If a driver is in a rush, they may make irresponsible or illegal decisions in an attempt to get through traffic faster

Congestion plays a big role in many car accidents, which is why some of the deadliest highway stretches in Florida are also often the busiest. 

Road Conditions

Roads need regular maintenance, especially if they regularly receive high traffic. When a city or county fails to keep a road in good condition, problems like faded lines or potholes may develop over time. Not only are these problems inconvenient or damaging to cars, but they also make it more challenging for drivers to navigate safely.

Navigating Deadly Florida Roads

Navigating the deadliest stretches of highways in Florida and other hazardous roads is difficult, but being aware of what makes them so dangerous can help you be proactive about your safety.

Contact Our Gainesville Personal Injury Law Firm in North Central Florida

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