The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) just released data regarding some of the deadliest roads for summer travel across the nation. Interstate 40 was named the deadliest road in North Carolina for summer travel. WLOS ABC News Channel 13 reported on the recent NHTSA report. Apparently, 1-40 is particularly lethal during summer months. I-40 stretches for more than 400 miles throughout the state and passes through Western North Carolina and Tennessee.
Roadway Fatalities on North Carolina Mountain Roadways
The NHTSA looked at roadway fatalities between 2015 and 2017, and also found a high number of deaths on I-85 and U.S. 64. Officials with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reported that the crash rate for mountain counties is below the state average. Crash fatalities are still occurring in these areas though. Trooper Calvin Lewis, who patrols all mountain highways, reported that issues like speeding, seat belt violations, DWIs, aggressive driving and distracted driving are all contributing factors to the crash fatality rates on North Carolina roadways.
Hot Weather Means More Traffic
With kids out for the summer and the weather heating up, people are hitting the road for summer vacations and road trips. This leads to an increase in traffic on already busy roadways. Since Asheville is a popular vacation destination, drivers in the area can also count on seeing an increase in tourist traffic. Local motorists are encouraged to allow for extra time in their commutes, so they don’t risk running late or feeling pressured to speed or rush to work or important appointments.
Car Accidents in Asheville
After any kind of car accident, it’s a good idea to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer about your case. Whether it happened during summer vacation or on your morning commute, you may be entitled to compensation to cover medical bills and other expenses associated with your injuries.
The team at Davis Law Group, P.A. wishes everybody a safe and happy summer, and if you have been injured or if you have lost a loved on in a car accident involving a dangerous or distracted driver in Asheville or in any of the surrounding Western North Carolina communities, contact our office at 828-303-2842 for a free case consultation today.