Most Dangerous Highways In The US: 5 Places to Avoid Breaking Down

Traveling across the U.S. offers incredible scenery and adventure, but some highways are notorious for being risky due to heavy traffic, high accident rates, or challenging conditions. Knowing which roads pose the greatest danger can help you plan safer routes and be more prepared. Here’s a look at five cities with the most dangerous highways and how you can protect yourself with the right coverage from Happy Camper Insurance, including roadside

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is home to stretches of highways known for congestion and frequent accidents, particularly along I-15. The high volume of tourists and limited public transportation options make navigating breakdowns more challenging. Repair costs are also steep, with labor rates averaging nearly $150 per hour. The city’s low mechanic-to-population ratio could also leave you waiting longer for repairs. Key Risks:

I-15 is one of the busiest and most accident-prone highways.
Limited public transport options make breakdowns more inconvenient.
High repair costs and limited mechanic availability.

Austin, Texas

Austin’s growing population has led to increased traffic, particularly on I-35. The highway is notorious for bottlenecks and frequent accidents. Mechanics are scarce relative to the city’s size, meaning longer waits for repairs. Public transportation isn’t robust, which can add stress if your vehicle breaks down. Key Risks:

I-35 is a major hotspot for accidents.
Low ratio of mechanics to population.
Public transportation is limited, making alternative travel difficult.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans sees heavy traffic on highways like I-10, where frequent crashes occur due to narrow lanes and unpredictable weather. While public transportation is more accessible here, repair costs remain among the highest in the nation, and finding a mechanic quickly can be a challenge. Key Risks:

I-10 is known for accidents, especially during bad weather.
Highest repair labor rates in the U.S.
Low mechanic availability despite moderate public transit options.

4. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville’s stretch of I-65 is another one of the most dangerous highways in the US, with a reputation for accidents, particularly during rush hours. Public transportation in Louisville ranks as one of the worst, making it hard to get around while waiting for vehicle repairs. High labor costs and limited mechanic availability further add to the difficulties of handling a breakdown. Key Risks:

I-65 sees frequent congestion and accidents.
Poor public transit infrastructure.
Above-average repair costs and limited mechanic access.

5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City’s I-40 is one of the deadliest highways in America, with a high accident rate due to its long, monotonous stretches that can lead to driver fatigue. Public transit options here are the lowest among major cities, which can be a significant inconvenience if your vehicle needs repairs. Although there are relatively more mechanics, labor costs remain high. Key Risks:

I-40 is prone to accidents, especially from fatigued drivers.
Worst public transportation score among major cities.
High repair costs despite good mechanic availability.

Protect Your Journey with Roadside Assistance

Driving on dangerous highways can be unpredictable, but you can minimize stress with the right insurance coverage. Adding roadside assistance to your policy with Happy Camper Insurance means you’ll have support for towing, flat tires, jump-starts, and more—providing peace of mind wherever your travels take you. Reach out to us today to discuss how roadside assistance can enhance your coverage and keep you safe on the road. Stay prepared and enjoy worry-free adventures!