Top-Ranked Deadliest Roads in the US

Some of the most dangerous highways include Interstate 17, Interstate 40, and US Highway 60 in Arizona, which frequently rank among the deadliest due to high speeds, unpredictable terrain, and extreme weather conditions. These roads see a high number of fatal crashes, making Arizona one of the riskiest places to drive.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, contact a Phoenix car accident lawyer at Gage Mathers for legal guidance. With more than fifty years of experience, our firm has helped accident victims recover millions in compensation and get the justice they deserve.

Why Are Arizona’s Highways So Dangerous?

Arizona’s highways are notoriously hazardous, ranking among the most dangerous in the country. The state’s vast desert landscapes, winding mountain passes, and intense heat create a unique set of risks.

A major contributor to fatal accidents is temperature-related vehicle failure in Arizona. Extreme heat can cause tire blowouts, overheated engines, and brake failures, all of which can turn a routine drive into a deadly accident.

Understanding which roads require extra caution can help drivers stay safe and avoid crashes. Below are some of Arizona’s most dangerous highways and the risks they pose.

Interstate 17 (I-17): A Treacherous Route Through the Mountains

Running between Phoenix and Flagstaff, I-17 is one of the deadliest highways in Arizona. The biggest danger on this road is elevation changes. The highway begins at about 1,500 feet in Phoenix and climbs to over 4,000 feet in the mountains.

Drivers often struggle with steep ascents and rapid descents, which can lead to brake failures, loss of control, and high-speed crashes. In the summer months, the risk of temperature-related vehicle failure in Arizona skyrockets. Overheated engines, tire blowouts, and brake malfunctions become more common, leading to serious accidents.

Additionally, I-17’s winding mountain roads can be dangerous for those unfamiliar with steep driving conditions. Vehicles traveling too fast can misjudge curves and veer off the road, causing devastating crashes.

Interstate 40 (I-40): A Highway Prone to Road Hypnosis and Trucking Accidents

I-40 is one of the top-ranked deadliest roads in the US, stretching across northern Arizona and serving as a major route for long-haul truckers. While relatively straight and flat, the highway’s long, monotonous stretches pose their own dangers.

One of the biggest risks of I-40 is road hypnosis, a condition where drivers zone out due to repetitive scenery. This can cause:

• Delayed reaction times
• Missed traffic signals
• Drifting out of lanes
• Failure to notice sudden stops ahead

These factors, combined with high-speed limits and heavy semi-truck traffic, create a deadly mix. Multi-car pileups and fatal trucking accidents are tragically common.

US Highway 60: A Deadly Scenic Route Through Arizona’s Mountains

US Highway 60 may be one of Arizona’s most beautiful drives, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. Known for its sharp turns, steep drop-offs, and unpredictable weather, this mountain pass requires constant driver attention.

Many drivers unfamiliar with mountain driving struggle with the tight curves and elevation changes. Losing control can result in head-on collisions or cars veering off the cliffs.

What makes Highway 60 even more dangerous is the lack of cell phone reception in remote areas. Accident victims and witnesses often struggle to call for help, sometimes having to drive miles just to find a signal.

Additional Risks on Arizona’s Deadliest Roads

Beyond dangerous roads themselves, several factors make Arizona highways even riskier:

• Extreme heat: High temperatures weaken tires, cause engine overheating, and damage brake systems.
• Aggressive driving: Many accidents result from speeding, tailgating, and reckless lane changes.
• Limited emergency access: In rural areas, ambulance response times can be delayed, leading to worse injury outcomes.

What to Do If You’re in an Accident on Arizona’s Deadliest Roads

If you’re involved in a crash on one of these highways, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:

• Call 911 immediately for medical and police assistance.
• Document the scene–take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and injuries.
• Get witness statements from anyone who saw the crash.
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor–some worsen over time.
• Contact a Phoenix car accident lawyer before speaking to insurance companies.

Many victims don’t realize they’re entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Speaking with an experienced attorney can make all the difference in your case.

Gage Mathers: The Law Firm That Fights for You

At Gage Mathers, we have successfully recovered over $275 million for accident victims across Arizona. With decades of experience handling high-speed crashes, trucking accidents, and vehicle failures, we know how to win cases against insurance companies.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a dangerous road or another driver’s negligence, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact Gage Mathers today for a free consultation and let us fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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