The Nation’s Deadliest Interstate
At the end of 2017, a company called Teletrac Navman compiled a list of the 25 most dangerous highways in America. The study used federal data to compare the number of fatal crashes on the interstate to the total miles. I-4, which is currently undergoing construction as part of the “I-4 Ultimate” project, tops the list with 1.25 deaths per mile. Following Orlando is Interstate 45 in Houston with just over one death per mile. However, the third deadliest highway is also in Florida. US Highway 192 runs through Melbourne, FL, and suffered just under 0.9 deaths per mile.
“I-4 Ultimate”
The I-4 construction project is a 21-mile makeover of the interstate from west of Kirkman Road in Orange County to east of State Road 434 in Seminole County. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2021. Until the projects completion, I-4 construction will result in closed exits, lane closures and modifications, heightened traffic and other unwanted effects. Some areas will prove to be more difficult to drive through at various stages of construction. Areas of heightened traffic and road modifications include:
- The interchange at I-4 and State Road 408
- Wymore Road exit
- Douglas Avenue near State Road 436
- I-4 westbound between the exits at Maitland Blvd and Lee Road.
Distracted Driving
Although I-4 is undergoing construction as part of the massive “I-4 Ultimate” project, state troopers still attribute the high number of crashes on I-4 to driver error such as distracted driving and speeding.
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving such as:
- Talking or texting on your mobile phone
- Eating and drinking
- Talking to people in your vehicle
- Adjusting stereo or navigation system
- Anything else that diverts your attention
Texting is the most severe distraction. Sending or reading a texts takes your eyes off the road for close to five seconds. At 55mph, that equates to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
Injured on I-4
If you or someone you love has suffered an accident on I-4, it is imperative that you contact an experienced, Orlando attorney to assist with your claim. Frank Eidson has been practicing law in Orlando since 1989 and specializes in these types of accidents. The Frank Eidson law firm takes pride in building personal relationships with their clients and if you are bedridden or cannot leave the hospital, Mr. Eidson will come to you. Call (407) 245 – 2887 for a free case review and take a step towards getting the compensation you deserve.
