Interstates in North Carolina form an essential network connecting cities, facilitating trade, and serving as the preferred route for many travelers. However, according to a recent study by Shipman & Wright LLP, some sections have gained notoriety as the deadliest road stretches in North Carolina due to their higher-than-average accident and fatality rates. Motorists should be well-informed about them so that they can remain vigilant and take the correct decisions while traveling.
North Carolina’s interstates are vital for business and travel, but some sections are far more hazardous than others. Below is a closer look at the state’s three most dangerous interstates and what motorists can expect.
1. Interstate 85 – Charlotte’s Deadly Stretch
A stretch of ten miles on I-85 in Charlotte has been ranked as the most perilous road in North Carolina. From Little Rock Road near Charlotte Douglas International Airport to W. Sugar Creek Road by Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens, this highway witnessed 23 deadly accidents from 2019 to 2023.
Just a mile east, another segment toward Concord Regional Airport ranked fifth in the state with 13 fatalities, and a third segment going past Lake Concord to Mt. Hope Church Road ranked third in the state with 15. Outside the Charlotte metropolitan area, I-85 again appears in the vicinity of Burlington between Graham and Buckhorn, where 12 deadly crashes tied it for sixth in the state.
Considering the huge number of high-risk areas crammed along I-85, drivers should be more cautious, keeping a sharp eye in heavy traffic, making lane-changing decisions early, and easing off where traffic is congested can do a great deal to minimize the likelihood of becoming one of these statistics.
2. Interstate 77 – Sharp Curves, High Risk
The second-most-lethal segment of road in North Carolina is on I-77, where 17 fatal accidents have occurred between the Wilson Heights segment and Huntersville in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Another lethal segment of the same interstate appears to lie further south, from downtown Charlotte to the South Carolina border.
This section tied for sixth with 12 deadly crashes. With both of its risky sections in and around Charlotte, drivers have to be especially cautious on I-77 maintaining good following distances, not cutting off other vehicles, and driving more slowly in congested traffic can save a life.
3. Interstate 95 – The State’s Deadliest Highway
I-95, the main north–south artery along the East Coast, also appeared on North Carolina’s most hazardous highways list. The only section on the list is south of Roanoke Rapids, just south of the Virginia state line, where 12 fatal wrecks put it in a tie for sixth. As I-95 is a congested interstate highway with long-distance drivers, drivers have to be careful in the form of following speed limits, being cautious while undergoing abrupt lane changes, and planning recurrent stops to avoid driver tiredness on long trips.
Understanding the Risks
Several factors contribute to the high accident rates on these interstates. High traffic volume increases the likelihood of motor vehicle collisions, while urban congestion in densely developed areas often leads to sudden stops and frequent lane changes. Road design can also play a role, with sharp curves, limited visibility, and poorly marked lanes creating additional hazards. Driver behavior further compounds the risk, as speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving remain significant contributors to crashes.
Tips for Safe Travel on North Carolina’s Interstate Highways
To travel safely on North Carolina’s high-risk interstates, it is important to plan ahead by checking traffic reports and road conditions before your trip. Staying alert and avoiding distractions can help drivers respond to sudden changes in traffic flow, while adhering to posted speed limits reduces the risk of accidents. Using technology such as GPS apps, such as Apple Maps or Waze, can also be beneficial, providing real-time traffic updates and suggesting alternative routes to avoid congestion.
While North Carolina’s interstates are essential for travel and commerce, certain stretches pose higher risks due to a combination of factors. By staying informed and exercising caution, drivers can enhance their safety on these roads.