New York has some of the most dangerous highways in the country. The Federal Highway Administration puts the state at No. 6 on its list of “States With the Worst Roads.” In fact, a study said more than 60% of New York’s major highways are less than good, breaking down the rates as follows:
- Poor: 24%
- Fair: 36.7%
- Good: 39.3%
A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report shows nearly 43,000 people died on U.S. highways in 2022. Unusually high fatality numbers that began in 2020 also plague New York, as 1,148 people died in crashes last year, just nine fewer than in 2021.
The Empire State is on a dubious top 10 list
Two of the major highways in and around Albany aren’t just the worst in the state but in the nation. They are:
- Taconic State Parkway, labeled by one safety group as the “7th deadliest road in America.”
- Interstate 87, with the section from Albany to Ramapo being the deadliest stretch.
Other studies show most crashes in the Capital Region happen in Albany County. A recent survey counted over 10,000 accidents in a two-year period, most occurring at intersections. Central Avenue is known for having many of the area’s most dangerous intersections.
Negligence compounds dangerous road conditions
While poor road conditions can cause traffic accidents, reckless or drunk drivers are often to blame. NHTSA notes that since the onset of the pandemic, more drivers are distracted or drunk, and many drive too fast for road conditions, frequently causing wrecks, injuring themselves and others.
If you’re in a crash with a negligent driver, understand that insurers will try to pay you as little as possible. That’s why it’s crucial to document everything you can about the crash and seek experienced legal guidance to obtain compensation for pain and suffering, medical costs and lost wages.