The Illinois Highway With The Highest Risk Of Fatal Crashes

Driving through Illinois can be scenic and straightforward—until you find yourself on the wrong stretch of road. One highway in particular has earned the chilling title of the most dangerous in the state, and the statistics are hard to ignore.

The Most Dangerous Road in Illinois

Illinois drivers take note: a recent analysis by This vs That has named this US Highway the most dangerous road in the state. Stretching 428 miles from Antioch in northern Illinois to Brookport in the south, this highway poses significant risks for travelers, especially in adverse conditions.

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The Most Dangerous Road in Illinois: US Highway 45

According to the study, US Highway 45 has a notably high rate of fatalities. For every 100 crashes, there are 112 fatalities—more than one death per crash. Annually, the Illinois stretch of this highway sees about 11 fatal accidents. This sobering statistic highlights the importance of extra caution when driving on this route.

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What Makes US Highway 45 So Dangerous?

Several factors, according to the study, contribute to the highway’s danger:

• Heavy Traffic: As a major north-south route, it’s often congested, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Rural Sections: In southern Illinois, long stretches of road lack adequate lighting or barriers.
• High Speeds: Speeding drivers frequently underestimate the curves and conditions of this road.

US Highway 45/Route 45 is a major north-south United States highway from Lake Superior to the Gulf of Mexico. The total length of the highway is 1,297 miles.

428 miles of US Highway 45 run all the way through Illinois, beginning near Antioch and continuing south through the state to near Brookport

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Tips for Staying Safe

If you must travel US Highway 45, follow these safety measures:

• Stay Alert: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions.
• Adjust for Conditions: Slow down during rain, snow, or fog.
• Plan Ahead: Consider alternative routes during high-traffic times or inclement weather.

By driving cautiously, you can help reduce the risks associated with Illinois’ most dangerous road.

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