Deadliest Roads in North Carolina

Five of the deadliest roads in the Jacksonville, North Carolina, area are:

1. Highway 258
2. Highway 17
3. Highway 53, which transitions into Western Blvd.
4. Gum Branch Road
5. Sand Ridge Road

We all have a part to play in reducing the number of fatal accidents across the state. Recognizing that some roads are more dangerous than others can help all motorists be extra vigilant when approaching stretches of highway that have proven particularly deadly. If you have lost a loved one in a car wreck, an experienced North Carolina wrongful death attorney can help you hold the at-fault party accountable for their negligence.

What Makes These North Carolina Roads So Deadly?

Several factors contribute to the high fatality rates on these North Carolina roads:

• High traffic volume – Many of these roads, particularly the interstate sections, experience heavy traffic, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
• Complex interchanges – Some areas feature complicated merge points and exits that can confuse drivers.
• Speed differentials – On some roads, the mix of local and through traffic can lead to dangerous speed differences.
• Limited visibility – Curves, hills, and weather conditions can reduce drivers’ ability to see potential hazards.
• Inadequate safety features – Some of these roads may lack sufficient barriers, lighting, or other safety measures to prevent or mitigate severe crashes.

Understanding these factors can help drivers approach these areas with heightened caution and awareness.

What Types of Accidents Can Happen on North Carolina Roads?

Many types of accidents happen far too frequently on North Carolina roads. Some of the most common and potentially fatal crashes include:

• Head-on collisions – These accidents are often the result of one driver drifting into a lane of oncoming traffic due to inattention, drowsiness, or intoxication. The combined speed of the two vehicles can result in a fatal impact force.
• Side-impact crashes – Also known as T-bone accidents, these collisions can potentially be deadly for the person on the side of the vehicle that receives the impact.
• Sideswipe accidents – While sideswipe crashes are often less dangerous, they can become fatal if they result in a multi-car pileup or a vehicle veering off the side of the road.
• Rear-end accidents – Like sideswipe collisions, a rear-end crash can be deadly when multiple vehicles are involved or when it occurs at high speeds.
• Rollover crashes – When a vehicle rolls over due to being top-heavy or imbalanced, occupants can be fatally crushed.

What Frequently Causes Collisions in North Carolina?

While road conditions play a role, human behavior often contributes significantly to fatal accidents. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving – Using phones, eating, or engaging in other non-driving activities takes attention from the road.
• Speeding – Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions reduces reaction time and increases impact force.
• Impaired driving – Alcohol, drugs, and even some medications can severely impair a driver’s judgment and reflexes.
• Fatigue – Drowsy driving, especially on long stretches of interstate, can be as dangerous as drunk driving.
• Failure to adjust to conditions – Not slowing down or increasing following distance in bad weather or heavy traffic can often lead to collisions.

Recognizing these common causes can help drivers make safer choices and reduce their likelihood of becoming part of these statistics.

What Can a Driver Do to Keep Themselves Safe on These Roads?

While we cannot control other drivers’ actions, we can take steps to enhance our own safety:

• Stay alert, avoid distractions, and remain focused on the road and surrounding traffic.
• Obey the speed limit and adjust your speed to account for road and weather conditions.
• Regular maintenance, including tire checks, can prevent mechanical failures that lead to crashes.
• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same. Use your vehicle’s safety technologies if available.
• Plan ahead and familiarize yourself with your route, especially when traveling on unfamiliar roads or through complex interchanges.
• Avoid peak hours. When possible, plan your trips to avoid the busiest times on these high-risk roads.
• Keep a safe following distance between your vehicle and others to give yourself time to react to sudden changes.
• Drive defensively, anticipate potential hazards, and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

By implementing these safety measures, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of being involved in a fatal accident on North Carolina’s most dangerous roads.

What Happens If Someone Is Killed in a Car Accident on North Carolina Roads?

When someone loses their life in a traffic accident, the emotional and financial consequences for their family can be devastating. However, North Carolina law allows the personal representative of the accident victim’s estate to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for surviving family members.

A successful wrongful death claim can recover compensation for:

• The victim’s accident-related medical fees
• The victim’s pain and suffering due to the collision
• Funeral expenses
• Lost income the victim would have earned
• Loss of services, care, protection, companionship, comfort, and assistance for surviving family members

The statute of limitations gives two years from the date of the accident victim’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A knowledgeable North Carolina car accident attorney can ensure you meet all applicable deadlines.

Contact a North Carolina Car Accident Lawyer

Losing a loved one in a car crash is one of the most heart-wrenching events someone can experience. At The Law Offices of John Drew Warlick, P.A., we understand the challenges families face after a fatal traffic collision. While suffering such a tragedy can make it feel nearly impossible to know what to do next, our experienced wrongful death lawyers can offer you clarity and support.

We have been serving the people of North Carolina for three generations, and we understand what it takes to secure the compensation you need to move forward. Our team has helped recover millions of dollars for surviving family members, including $3.2 million for a deadly car wreck. Former clients say we are “compassionate and authentically professional,” helping to ease their pain and demand justice. Call us today or contact us online for a free case evaluation with a dedicated member of our legal team.

Visit Our North Carolina Car Accident Law Offices