In the state of Arkansas, known for its picturesque landscapes, a worrisome trend has emerged – a significant increase in car accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association’s recent report reveals that Arkansas experienced the third-largest surge in fatal car crashes nationwide in 2020, with a sharp 24.9% rise in such accidents.
As traffic on the roads intensifies, multiple factors have contributed to the rise in collisions, injuries, and fatalities. In this article, we will explore the primary reasons behind this alarming surge of car accidents in Arkansas.
Dangerous Interstates
Keith Law Group notes that Arkansas boasts a network of interstates that serve as crucial transportation routes for both commercial trucking and daily commuting for residents. However, these interstates have become notorious for their heavy traffic and congestion, ranking among the busiest in the South.
Unfortunately, the high traffic volume has contributed to a concerning trend of car accidents on these roads. Shockingly, more than 14 percent of all car accidents in Arkansas occur on interstates, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries each year. For instance, in 2019, nearly 70 people lost their lives in interstate accidents, leaving thousands more injured.
Among the most hazardous stretches is Interstate 40, which spans 285 miles from Tennessee through Little Rock to Oklahoma. Regrettably, this interstate experienced the highest number of fatal accidents in the state during that year.
Additionally, Interstate 30, running from Texas to Little Rock and passing through several cities, has gained a notorious reputation for its danger, with a fatal accident occurring approximately every 6 miles along its path.
As such, addressing the safety concerns on these interstates has become a pressing matter to protect the well-being of commuters and travelers alike.
Population Growth and Urbanization
The state of Arkansas has experienced significant population growth, particularly in cities like Little Rock and Rogers, leading to urbanization and an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads. Unfortunately, Little Rock has witnessed a troubling rise in fatal car crashes, with the police department reporting a 43% increase compared to the previous year.
Similarly, Rogers has also seen its share of serious accidents, as evidenced by a recent incident on July 1st, 2023, where emergency crews responded to a crash on West Hudson Road resulting in multiple injuries. During this crash, which occurred around 12:38 p.m. on 1300 West Hudson Road, one person was trapped, and six others were hospitalized.
Given the frequency of such accidents, it is crucial for individuals involved or those who know someone affected to seek the guidance of a Little Rock or Rogers personal injury attorney. Consulting an attorney can help victims pursue rightful compensation for the damages incurred in these unfortunate events.
Insufficient Road Infrastructure
Arkansas is home to an extensive network of rural roads that sprawl across the state in all directions. Unfortunately, these rural roads have become hotspots for accidents if drivers are Going too fast. Over the past three decades, various publications have labeled Arkansas as having the “worst roads in America.”
Additionally, a study conducted in 2011 highlighted the grim reality that the state’s rural highways ranked fourth in the country for their deadly nature. Disturbingly, another study conducted by the organization TRIP revealed that rural roads in Arkansas are significantly more perilous than freeways and interstates. Fatal car accidents on rural roads were found to be up to three times more frequent than on other types of roadways.
The lack of adequate safety features on many of these rural roads, such as wide shoulders, guardrails, and dividers, exacerbates the dangers. Fatigued drivers, in particular, face increased risks of running off the road and colliding with oncoming traffic, with the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation reporting that 21 percent of fatal crashes involve a drowsy driver.
Addressing the safety concerns on Arkansas’ rural roads has become a pressing matter to save lives and improve road safety in the state.
Weather-Related Factors
Weather conditions contribute significantly to the frequency of fatal crashes on roads, with Arkansas experiencing a higher average of weather-related fatal crashes per 1 million drivers compared to the national average. On average, Arkansas sees 23.2 weather-related fatal crashes per 1 million drivers annually, whereas the national average stands at 17 fatal crashes.
Rainfall is a primary weather-related factor behind the majority of crashes in the state, accounting for approximately 71 percent of all weather-related fatal accidents in Arkansas. With an average annual rainfall of 48 inches, Arkansas receives more rain than many other states, where the U.S. average is approximately 30 inches per year.
While snow does cause some crashes in Arkansas, residents should be particularly vigilant about driving safely during rainy conditions, as it proves to be the most dangerous weather condition on the state’s roads.
Conclusion
The surge in car accidents in the state of Arkansas demands immediate attention and proactive measures. It is crucial for drivers to recognize their responsibility in ensuring road safety. Avoiding distractions, adhering to traffic laws, and practicing defensive driving are essential steps individuals can take to protect themselves and others on the road.
Furthermore, community awareness campaigns, stricter law enforcement, and improvements in road infrastructure can contribute to mitigating the risk of accidents. By working together, we can strive to reverse this alarming trend and create safer roadways for everyone in the Natural State.
