Even though you may not be able to avoid traveling on dangerous roads that see a high number of collisions, it is important to know about them. That way you know to use extra caution to help reduce your risk of an accident that could result in serious injuries.
Below, learn more about some of the most dangerous roadways in and around Harrisburg. Our experienced Harrisburg auto accident lawyers also discuss practical steps drivers can take to help reduce their risk of a crash.
If you suffer an injury in a crash caused by another driver, give our firm a call to see how we may be able to assist you. Discussing a crash with a licensed attorney can be an important step in the recovery process.
Roadways with a Higher Risk of a Crash
While a crash can happen anywhere, there are some roads where it may be more likely to occur. Below is a list of some of these roads.
Interstate 83
This roadway has different names depending on where you are. In some places, it is called the Susquehanna Expressway and in others, it is called the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Memorial Highway.
The interstate becomes particularly dangerous as it nears Harrisburg. There is often a lot of traffic and construction, two factors that often increase the risk of a crash because many drivers are reckless. For example, drivers may speed or be distracted, even in heavy traffic.
To give you an idea of the amount of traffic, thousands go into Harrisburg in the morning and leave in the evening.
One of the most dangerous sections is between the Lemoyne and Eisenhower Interchange.
Interstate 81
There is a 20-mile stretch of this road that sees an average of more than 70,000 vehicles pass through it. One-quarter of these vehicles are commercial trucks. This data was collected by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
There was a 50-car pileup on this road in March of 2014 that resulted in two deaths. There was also a tractor-trailer crash in December of 2016 that caused a large portion of the road to be shut down for several hours.
From 2015 to 2017 there were 14 fatal wrecks on a stretch of Interstate 81 in Mechanicsburg.
Cameron and Market Streets
A total of nine pedestrians got hit by cars at the intersection of Cameron Street and Market Street. There is so much traffic coming and going that pedestrians do not have much time to try to get across the street.
The pedestrian signals often do not work or take so long to change to say it is safe to walk that pedestrians often ignore them. Drivers are often distracted, making a pedestrian crash more likely, even when pedestrians have the right of way.
Lincoln Highway in Lancaster County
This is a two-lane highway running through farmland and some small towns with shopping plazas. There are not many stop lights, and the roads are narrow. In these conditions, drivers may not pay as much attention as they should and tend to speed. These factors all combine to create a high risk for accidents.
Some other dangerous roadways in Harrisburg and the surrounding areas include:
- Paxton Street in Harrisburg
- Hershey Road in Hummelstown
- William Penn Highway in Dauphin
- US Route 22 in Harrisburg
Tips for Lowering Your Crash Risk
Defensive driving is always important, but especially so in heavy traffic and areas where pedestrians are waiting to cross the street.
What does defensive driving mean?
Defensive driving means you do not assume other drivers will be cautious. You should not assume other drivers see you, or that they will check their blind spots before changing lanes. Tailgating is common in areas with heavy traffic, and you should try to take steps to get away from drivers who tailgate. They could easily cause a rear-end crash that could leave you with painful soft-tissue injuries.
Obeying posted speed limits is another important aspect of being a defensive driver. Speeding gives you less time to react, slow down and come to a complete stop.
Distractions are never good when you are driving, but they are especially bad in heavy traffic. Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Adjust the radio or other things before you get on your way. If you are hungry, get off the road and have something to eat. Do not eat while driving. If you are tired, pull over somewhere safe so you can rest or have someone else drive.
In Pennsylvania, texting and driving is a primary offense, meaning the police can pull you over specifically for texting and driving and do not need another reason.
Schmidt Kramer is Here to Assist You After a Crash. Call Today
Need legal assistance after a crash?
Schmidt Kramer has been securing compensation for crash victims for more than 30 years. Our firm has secured more than $100 million in compensation on behalf of our clients.
The initial consultation is free of charge and you are not obligated to hire our firm afterwards. There are also no upfront fees for our services.
Give us a call today for assistance: (717) 727-1403.