Pennsylvania boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes, but it contends with some of the nation’s most congested roads, particularly in urban areas. A study by Dallas W. Hartman P.C. examining three years of NHTSA data reveals 82 road segments in Pennsylvania witnessing four or more fatal crashes in close proximity from 2015 to 2017. These segments contributed to 465 crashes and 513 fatalities during that period. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of Pennsylvania’s most congested and perilous roads, along with tips for staying safe on them.
Roosevelt Boulevard (30 fatalities)
Roosevelt Boulevard, also known as US Route 1, spans a 12-lane divided highway in Philadelphia. Renowned for heavy traffic, frequent accidents, and high-speed drivers, it stands as Pennsylvania’s most congested and lethal road, with 30 fatalities occurring on a 12-mile stretch from 2015 to 2017. Despite safety improvement projects, including red-light cameras and pedestrian crossings, challenges persist for both drivers and pedestrians.
Delaware Expressway (16 fatalities)
Interstate 95, or the Delaware Expressway, connects Philadelphia with New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. As one of the country’s busiest highways, carrying over 200,000 vehicles daily in some sections, it faces congestion, accidents, and fatalities, especially in the Philadelphia area. Between 2015 and 2017, 16 fatalities occurred on a 10-mile segment, making it Pennsylvania’s second most deadly road. The ongoing Revive I-95 program aims to enhance safety, capacity, and mobility through extensive reconstruction.
American Legion Memorial Highway (17 fatalities)
Interstate 81, known as the American Legion Memorial Highway, traverses central Pennsylvania, linking Harrisburg with Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and the New York state line. Despite its importance for commerce and tourism, this north-south interstate witnessed 17 fatalities on a 9-mile segment near Mechanicsburg from 2015 to 2017. Issues such as poor pavement conditions and outdated interchanges prompted improvement projects by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
Street Road (15 fatalities)
State Route 132, also called Street Road, cuts through Bucks County, serving residential and commercial areas while connecting with major highways. Notorious for congestion, speeding, and fatalities, it recorded 15 deaths on a 7-mile segment from 2015 to 2017. Despite safety initiatives like traffic signals and speed limit reductions, Street Road remains a challenge for drivers and law enforcement.
State Route 33 (14 fatalities)
State Route 33, a four-lane freeway through Northampton and Monroe counties, links with several major routes. Popular among commuters, travelers, and shoppers, this state highway witnessed 14 fatalities on a 6-mile segment near Easton between 2015 and 2017. Various safety measures, such as median barriers and rumble strips, have been implemented by PennDOT to address the road’s dangers.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of Pennsylvania’s congested and hazardous roads, each presenting unique risks. To minimize accidents and injuries, drivers should exercise caution, adhere to traffic rules, and remain vigilant and considerate toward other road users. If you or someone you know has experienced a car accident on any of these roads, seeking legal counsel from an experienced car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania is advisable to discuss your case and protect your rights.