Driving on the interstate can be daunting for many people, especially if they are relatively new drivers with little experience. The road design is different than they’re used to and traffic moves much more quickly. It can feel confusing, overwhelming and dangerous.
But is it? There are two ways to look at this issue. In some senses, the interstate can be more dangerous, but there are also some inherent safety features that protect drivers. Let’s take a look at both sides of the issue.
The impact of higher speeds
To begin with, speed is an issue that can impact accident severity. It makes a car crash more serious and the injuries can be more severe than if the same accident happened at a lower speed. This is part of the reason why rural roads have a higher fatal accident rate than city streets. These rural roads – similarly to the interstate – have higher speed limits. When accidents happen, the odds of major injuries and severe ramifications are higher.
The road design
But what mitigates this issue is the way that the road is designed. Due to on-ramps and off-ramps, combined with interstate highways that use medians or concrete barriers, traffic is always moving in the same direction. Since there are no intersections or oncoming traffic, the road gets much safer. Some even argue that the interstate is one of the safest places a person can drive.
What does this mean for you?
The reality is that accidents can happen anywhere, and there are many factors to consider when determining why they occur and where the greatest risk lies. But no matter where these crashes take place, those who have been injured may need to look into their legal options to seek financial compensation.