Utah’s roads see millions of travelers daily, but some routes pose serious safety risks. Our Spotlight on Utah’s Most Hazardous Roads examines the state’s most dangerous roadways and reveals the factors that make them so treacherous. Our goal is to help drivers navigate these areas with greater caution.
By analyzing traffic data and road conditions, we uncover key risks like weather, infrastructure issues, and heavy traffic. Becoming familiar with these hazards is vital for safer travel. Read more to learn which roads demand extra care and how to stay safe on Utah’s highways.
Utah’s Road Quality and Challenges
Utah, often referred to as the Beehive State consistently ranks among the top states for road quality. According to Consumer Affairs, Utah boasts the ninth–best roads in the country. Only 2% of rural roads and 7% of urban roads are categorized as poor.
Despite these commendable statistics, certain roads in Utah remain hazardous. Factors such as heavy traffic, steep grades, lack of guardrails, and unpaved surfaces contribute to these dangers. Understanding these risks is essential for safer travel.
Crash Data Overview
Our findings in a study of 2024 crash data from the Utah Department of Public Safety reveal alarming figures. Key statistics include:
- Total crashes: 61,606 incidents statewide
- Injuries: 27,141 from 18,872 crashes
- Fatalities: 281 deaths reported
“100 Deadliest Days”
A significant spike in crashes occurred during the “100 Deadliest Days”–the period between the beginning of Memorial Day Weekend and the end of Labor Day weekend–as highlighted by data from the UDPS:
- Crashes during this period: 16,024 incidents
- Teenage driver–related crashes: 12,622
- Older driver–related crashes: 9,027
Leading Crash Causes
Several key factors contributed to crashes on Utah’s roads:
- Impaired driving (drugs/alcohol): 117 fatal crashes
- Speeding: A factor in 8,151 accidents
- Distracted driving: Contributed to 5,146 crashes
- Holiday driving: 7,956 crashes occurred during busy travel periods
Urban vs Rural Roads
The distribution of crashes between urban and rural areas highlights distinct risks:
- Urban roads: 55,219 crashes
- Rural roads: 6,387 crashes
Seasonal and Time-Based Trends
Certain months and times of day posed greater risks for drivers. Key patterns from the UDPS include:
Worst Months for Crashes
Winter and late fall saw the highest crash rates:
- January: 5,630 crashes
- October: 5,542 crashes
- December: 5,528 crashes
- November: 5,422 crashes
- March: 5,266 crashes
Deadliest Time of Day
Midnight proved to be the riskiest time for driving:
- Fatal crashes at midnight: 33 incidents
Utah’s Most Hazardous Roads
Our findings based on crash data and roadway analysis identify several roads in Utah with heightened risks:
Interstate 15 (I-15)
High speeds, heavy traffic, and frequent lane changes make I-15 particularly dangerous. This highway accounted for 25 fatalities in 2024.
Parley’s Canyon
Steep inclines and sharp turns pose significant risks, especially during poor weather conditions. This road remains one of Utah’s most challenging routes.
Moki Dugway Scenic Backway
Unpaved gravel, steep grades, and the lack of guardrails make this scenic route particularly hazardous for drivers.
Interstate 80 (I-80)
Traffic congestion and sudden lane changes contribute to the dangers of I-80, which accounted for seven fatalities in 2024.
Washington Boulevard (State Road 235)
Heavy pedestrian and cyclist activity, combined with vehicle traffic, makes this road a challenging area. One fatality was reported here in 2024.
Promoting Safer Roads
The findings from our analysis highlight the importance of taking extra precautions when driving on Utah’s hazardous roads. By identifying these risks, drivers can better prepare for the challenges they may encounter.
As Utah grows and attracts more visitors, road safety remains a shared responsibility. Consulting a Utah car accident lawyer offers valuable guidance for those affected by crashes.
Addressing key risks and encouraging safer habits can reduce accidents and make Utah’s roads safer for all.