Driving on the interstate is necessary for some drivers, even though it is dangerous. Drivers must understand the general hazards that are present on these routes so that they can take steps to minimize their risks.
When one of these issues creeps up, innocent people may suffer harm in a crash. Anyone driving on the interstate should be prepared to handle these specific hazards.
High speeds and increased collision severity
One of the primary dangers of driving on the interstate is the high speeds at which vehicles travel. Higher speeds reduce the time drivers have to react to road hazards, sudden traffic changes or other emergencies. In the event of a collision, the increased speed also significantly raises the severity of the impact, leading to more serious injuries or fatalities. The physics behind high-speed accidents means that even minor errors in judgment or slight distractions can have catastrophic consequences.
Large vehicles and truck traffic
Interstates often have heavy traffic from large commercial vehicles, such as semitrucks and trailers, which pose major dangers. Due to their size and weight, these vehicles have longer stopping distances and larger blind spots, which can cause significant damage in a collision. The risk of a semitruck carrying hazardous materials adds another layer of danger in the event of an accident. The imbalance between the mass of commercial vehicles and passenger cars can lead to severe injuries for occupants of the latter in collisions.
Increased likelihood of multi-vehicle pile-ups
The combination of high speeds, heavy traffic and the presence of large vehicles increases the risk of multi-vehicle pile-ups on interstates. These incidents are particularly dangerous because they involve multiple impacts for each vehicle, increasing the likelihood of severe injuries or deaths. Multi-vehicle pile-ups may occur suddenly, leaving drivers with little to no time to react and avoid the crash.
Driver fatigue and monotony
Long stretches of interstate driving can lead to driver fatigue. The monotony of the environment, especially on long, straight sections of road, can result in decreased alertness and slower reaction times. Fatigued driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs because it impairs cognitive and motor functions essential for safe driving.
Victims of interstate crashes may suffer significant injuries, which require immediate medical care. This can be costly and can result in life-changing effects . Seeking compensation from a liable party can help them to recover those costs, but this requires swift action to ensure compliance with applicable time limits set by state law. A legal representative can make this process easier for victims.