Surprising statistics suggest that Kentucky has some of the most dangerous roads in the country. One study ranks Kentucky number six in the nation for dangerous road fatalities and road surface conditions.
What does that mean for Kentucky drivers? It means they are at risk of suffering devastating injuries and potentially losing loved ones when traveling Kentucky roadways.
At the law firm of Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer, we have the Kentucky Courage and tenacity to hold careless motorists accountable when they cause an accident. We understand how a traumatic car crash can change your life, cause significant injuries, and take a toll on your financial stability. We aim to help you navigate the challenges associated with the aftermath of a dangerous highway accident in Kentucky.
What are some of Kentucky’s most dangerous highways, and what can you do to help keep your family safe? We want to give you practical information on where the dangers lie and tips to help you prevent an accident.
US 25 Between State Road Champ to Fariston Road in London and New Coleman Lane to Spurr Road in Lexington
US 25, between State Road Champ and Fariston Road in London, is one of Kentucky’s deadliest stretches of highway for car accidents. Crash statistics indicate that in three years, dangerous driving on that extremely busy stretch of highway caused nine fatal crashes. That equates to an average of 1.9 crashes per mile. The section of US 25 between New Coleman Lane and Spurr Road in Lexington is not far behind, costing eight people their lives in the same span.
Spaghetti Junction – I-65, I-64, and I-71 Interchange in Louisville
The Federal Highway Administration gave the green light to a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet request to add additional safety improvements to the area in Louisville known as “Spaghetti Junction.” Spaghetti Junction is where ramps from I-71 South, I-64 West, and I-65 South meet in downtown Louisville. Why the need for additional safety measures? According to local news reports, the area is a known hotspot for accidents, especially rollovers and spills.
What makes the area so dangerous for Kentucky drivers? There are several points where rapid switching of lanes to catch an exit is required. There were also numerous overpasses that, for a time, still needed to satisfy federal safety standards. Rapid growth and more traffic in the area also contribute to the degradation of current infrastructure and confusion over entering and exiting the busy interchange.
Blue Grass Parkway
Blue Grass Parkway extends from I-65 to US 60. Although it is relatively short lengthwise, this stretch of highway can be hazardous for motorists. It is cited frequently as one of the most dangerous roads in Kentucky. The road gets used as a shortcut for motorists looking to avoid traffic congestion throughout the more popular roads in Louisville. However, congestion and careless drivers lead to an increased accident risk on this short stretch of highway.
Man O’War Boulevard in Lexington
Constant stop-and-go traffic makes Man O’War Boulevard another dangerous area for drivers in Lexington. Numerous stoplights are along the road, and careless drivers looking to “beat the light” can cause significant accidents.
Edward Breathitt Parkway
Edward T. Breathitt Parkway is a limited-access highway. It connects Hopkinsville, Crofton, and Nortonville and is about 34 miles long. Numerous wrecks occur on this section of the roadway annually. Five individuals died in separate car accidents over one weekend. This stretch of highway has also been the subject of a redesign to help improve safety and traffic flow.
Wendell Ford and I-69
News publications often have the grim job of reporting devastating accidents that occur along I-69 and Wendell Ford. Unfortunately, fatal, head-on collisions are not uncommon along this dangerous stretch. The Kentucky Department of Transportation estimates 291 collisions, 74 injuries, and one fatality in just one year on the roadway.
Martha Layne Collins Parkway
The Martha Layne Collins Parkway is also the site of many dangerous collisions. The Kentucky Department of Transportation recorded 249 collisions, 46 injuries, and six fatal crashes on the parkway in one year. The scenic roadway boasts gorgeous views of beautiful pastures of blue-green grass, trees, winding waterways, tourist destinations, and wineries – all attractive distractions for motorists.
William Natcher Parkway
William Natcher Parkway is another dangerous area for Kentucky motorists. Several news outlets have recorded the tragic details of multiple crashes along this stretch of road. Many of the accidents were fatal. Several roadway upgrades have been made to bring it up to interstate highway standards and increase driver safety. These changes include replacing exit signs and creating safer diamond interchanges. Still, accidents are common along the William Natcher Parkway due to careless driving.
I-264 in Louisville
I-264 in Louisville is another particularly treacherous roadway in Kentucky. Along the stretch from River Park Drive to Exit 8A alone, there have been seven fatal accidents, causing the death of eight individuals in three years. There are nearly 1.5 crashes per mile.
State Routes
Several state routes are also hazardous for Kentucky motorists. Sections of SR 1747, SR 1447, SR 1934, and SR 1856 have high accident and fatality rates because of dangerous curves, steep inclines, and narrow lanes. Rural sections of these state routes are also hazardous thanks to careless drivers disregarding speed limits because they don’t see as many officers patrolling these out-of-the-way roadways.
Common Causes of Accidents on Highways in Kentucky
The most common causes of crashes on Kentucky highways boil down to human error. Dangerous driving behaviors cause most tragic Kentucky highway accidents. The Kentucky Department of Transportation lists driver inattention as the overwhelming cause of most collisions in the state, contributing to as many as 39,555 accidents in one year.
Other common causes of crashes on highways in Kentucky include:
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving or alcohol involvement
- Following too closely
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield
- Drowsy driving
- Misjudging clearance
- Improper turns
- Disregard for traffic control
Although careless driving behavior is often the cause of catastrophic collisions, other factors such as mechanical defects, animals in the roadway, inclement weather, and road defects can also lead to highway accidents.
Tips for Staying Safe on Kentucky’s Roads
How can you keep yourself and your family safe along dangerous stretches of Kentucky highway? There are proactive steps you can take to help prevent devastating car accidents. Consider the following:
- Avoid distractions. Distractions are anything that keeps your mind or hands from safely operating your vehicle. Cellular phone use, texting, eating, grooming, loud music, and daydreaming are common sources of distraction. You can help prevent dangerous Kentucky highway accidents by focusing on safe driving and tuning out all distractions. Put your cell phone in the glove box or the back seat so you are not tempted to use it. Several safe driving apps can help prevent you from using your phone while driving.
- Avoid driving while impaired. Make a safe driving plan and stick to it. If you know you are going to enjoy alcohol while you’re out, make other plans to get home safely. Designate a sober driver, use a ridesharing service, or stay the night with a friend or family member. The life you save may be your own.
- Avoid speeding. Speeding increases the chances of losing control of a vehicle, especially if you need to make a sudden adjustment because of changes in traffic flow. Always adhere to the posted speed limit and adjust your speed when conditions change, such as in inclement weather or low visibility.
- Follow all posted signs and signals. It is tempting to try to beat the stoplight or sneak ahead when you don’t think another driver is coming at an intersection, but always adhere to traffic signs and signals. Running red lights and failing to yield the right of way are common causes of tragic and preventable car collisions.
- Use defensive driving techniques. Defensive driving techniques are accident-prevention tools that help drivers focus on safety in everyday driving situations. These techniques help drivers anticipate the actions of other motorists and respond to aggressive driving behaviors on the road.
- Wear your seatbelt. It is one of the simplest ways to help keep you and your family safe. Wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts save lives. Always be sure you and your passengers buckle up. Ensure that children are properly restrained and that small children have an appropriate child safety seat installed correctly according to manufacturer guidelines.
Injured in an Accident? Call Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer
Has a careless Kentucky driver injured you in an accident? Have you been involved in a collision on one of the deadliest roads in Kentucky or another route? It is time to act and contact our skilled Kentucky car accident attorneys for help.
We’ve got your back at Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer. Our attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve to get your life back on track. With a long track record of helping car accident victims like you, we’ll work tirelessly to seek maximum compensation for you.
Are you ready to learn more about your legal options? Contact our law office today to request a FREE personalized consultation.
