Navigating Arkansas's Most Dangerous Roads: What to Do If You've Been Injured

Arkansas is known for its beautiful scenery, from the Ozark Mountains to the Delta plains. However, our state's roadways can also be unexpectedly dangerous. At The Brad Hendricks Law Firm we understand the serious consequences of accidents that occur on these hazardous stretches of highway.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident on a dangerous road in Arkansas, it's crucial to know your rights and have experienced legal representation on your side.

Understanding the Risks: Arkansas's Most Dangerous Roads

Data reveals some alarming trends regarding road safety in Arkansas. While any road can be the site of an accident, certain highways have statistically higher rates of serious and fatal crashes. Knowing these areas can help all drivers exercise extra caution, but unfortunately, accidents still happen.

Here's a look at some of the Arkansas roadways identified as particularly dangerous:

• Highway 25 (North Central Arkansas): This 86-mile stretch from Conway to Black Rock has been flagged as one of the most dangerous per mile. In 2020, a fatal accident occurred approximately every 10.75 miles, and in 2019, it was about every 14.3 miles. The winding nature and varying terrain of this route can contribute to increased accident risk.

• Highway 12 (Northwest Arkansas): Running 57 miles from the Oklahoma border to Highway 23, Highway 12 has been cited with a fatal accident occurring roughly every 11.4 miles (around 2020). Increased traffic in the northwest region can be a contributing factor.

• Interstate 530 (Pine Bluff to Little Rock): This shorter 47-mile interstate surprisingly showed a high fatality rate in 2020, with a deadly accident occurring approximately every 4.2 miles. While the 2019 data showed fewer fatalities, this highlights the potential for unexpected danger even on seemingly straightforward routes.

• Highway 62 (Northern Arkansas): Spanning west to east across the northern part of the state, Highway 62 saw the highest total number of fatal accidents in 2020 with 22 fatal wrecks. Its length and the variety of communities it passes through contribute to higher overall accident numbers.

• Interstate 40 (Across Arkansas): As a major east-west artery stretching 285 miles across Arkansas, I-40 unfortunately experiences a significant number of fatalities annually. In 2020, there were 24 fatal accidents, averaging out to one approximately every 11.8 miles. High traffic volume and long-haul trucking contribute to these statistics.

• Highway 67 (Across Arkansas): Another lengthy highway at around 280 miles, Highway 67 experienced at least 15 fatal car crashes in 2019, underscoring the consistent dangers present on our state's major routes.

• Highway 7 (Central Arkansas): Known for its scenic beauty as it runs the height of the state, Highway 7 also presents dangers, particularly the sharp curves and steep hills near Bismarck that contribute to accidents.

• Highway 270 (Central to Western Arkansas): Traveling 156 miles from White Hall/Pine Bluff through Hot Springs towards Oklahoma, Highway 270 reportedly had a fatal accident every 13 miles (around 2020).

• Interstate 30 (South Central Arkansas): This interstate also raises safety concerns, with reports indicating a deadly crash occurring nearly every 6 miles.

Beyond the Interstates: The Hidden Dangers of Rural Roads

It's important to remember that danger isn't limited to major highways. Studies suggest that rural roads in Arkansas can be particularly hazardous. These roads often lack the safety features of interstates, with narrow lanes, limited shoulders, obscured visibility, and potential hazards like unmarked intersections and train crossings. The higher fatality rates per mile on some rural routes underscore the need for vigilance wherever you drive in Arkansas.

Have You Been Injured on a Dangerous Arkansas Road? We Can Help.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident on any of these or other roads in Arkansas, you may be facing significant medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. Determining the cause of the accident and navigating the insurance claims process can be complex, especially when factors like road conditions or the negligence of another driver are involved.

The Brad Hendricks Law Firm has a proven track record of helping personal injury victims across Arkansas, including those injured in accidents on dangerous roadways. Our experienced attorneys, serving Little Rock, Conway, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, and Texarkana, can:

• Thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident.

• Gather crucial evidence to build a strong case.

• Determine all liable parties.

• Aggressively negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

• Fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Don't face the aftermath of a serious accident alone. If you've been injured on a dangerous road in Arkansas, contact The Brad Hendricks Law Firm today for a free consultation. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you on the road to recovery.

Call us today or visit one of our convenient locations in Little Rock, Conway, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, or Texarkana. Your well-being is our priority.