One of the Most Treacherous Roads in America Runs Through Maine
Maine is known for being a peaceful state with a limited population. That smaller population leads visitors to believe that driving in Maine is an absolute breeze. No problems? No worries.
But those native to Maine understand that isn't necessarily the case. Mainers face plenty of roadway challenges throughout the year, from bumper-to-bumper traffic on single-lane roads to clogged highways during the height of tourism season. And don't get Mainers started on what it's like to travel on highways in the winter.
According to loveEXPLORING, it's one of those highways that remains one of the most dangerous roads in all of America. Interstate 95, which runs from Florida to Maine, is the 8th deadliest road in the nation, and one of the worst highways to regularly travel on.
Thankfully for Mainers, the worst of I-95 exists in Florida, where the portion of the highway that runs through Jacksonville holds two dubious titles. It's the most congested stretch of highway on the East Coast, and also the deadliest stretch of I-95.
While that all sounds unpleasant, the safety of I-95 has improved over the last several years. In 2019, the long-stretching highway led the nation in vehicular deaths, and had more car accidents per 100 miles than any other highway in the country.
While every highway is going to see some crashes and traffic, the Maine Turnpike stretch of I-95 is one of the safest along the highway. While traffic has been up along the highway, there hasn't been a significant bump in overall accidents or fatalities based on the increased number of motorists.
Mainers Share 20 Things That Make Maine the Best State in the US
Gallery Credit: Sean McKenna
2024’s Top 10 Best School Districts in Maine
Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge