Interstate 65, which runs north-south through Indiana, is known for being one of the most dangerous highways in the state. There are several reasons why this highway is considered an accident hotspot, and this blog will examine some of the factors that contribute to the high number of accidents on the I 65 interstate.

Factors Causing Indiana Traffic Accidents

Many common factors cause accidents every day all across the country. These factors affect traffic on Interstate 65 as well, but there are also some causes that are unique to the area.

High Traffic Volume 

One of the primary factors contributing to the high number of accidents on I-65 is the high volume of traffic. As one of the major highways in the state, I-65 sees a significant amount of traffic each day, including large commercial trucks. The heavy traffic volume can lead to congestion, delays, and accidents. 

According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System of the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration (NTHSA), I 65 is the 12th deadliest highway in the country. The highly-traveled thoroughfare that stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to Lake Michigan sees 36.5 deaths per 100 miles.

Road Design

Another factor contributing to the high number of accidents on I-65 is the road’s design. The highway’s narrow lanes, steep inclines, and tight curves make it difficult for drivers to navigate. Additionally, the highway lacks sufficient shoulder space, which can be dangerous for drivers who need to pull over in case of an emergency. Approximately 100,000 vehicles travel I-65 every day, and many of those vehicles are semi-trucks. These trucks have deliveries to make and the path through Indiana is the fastest to get them where they need to go. In order to redesign the highway to make it safer to travel, it would require rerouting of traffic that would be costly to trucking companies and their clients.

Indiana Weather

The weather conditions in Indiana can also contribute to an I 65 accident. The state’s unpredictable weather, including snow, ice, and fog, can make driving on I-65 hazardous. Drivers who are not prepared for these conditions may lose control of their vehicles, leading to accidents.

Distracted Driving

The use of electronic devices while driving is a growing issue that contributes to accidents on I-65. Distracted driving can lead to serious accidents on the highway. Drivers who are distracted by their phones or other electronic devices may not be paying enough attention to the road, making them more likely to be involved in a collision.

Recent Interstate 65 Accidents

Traffic on Interstate 65 leads to accidents every day. Here are a few recent accidents that occurred in the area.

On January 24, 2023, a construction worked was struck by a vehicle near the Southport Road exit. Multiple vehicles were involved in the crash, including an IMPD cruiser. 

On February 12, 2023, an accident on I-65 northbound delayed traffic between Crothersville and Seymour for several hours. Serious injuries were reported.

On March 13, 2023, multiple people, including a 4-year-old boy, suffered life-threatening injuries in a serious accident on I-65. Traffic was backed up due to an earlier crash and a distracted driver collided into a stopped vehicle at high speeds. The damage to the vehicles was described as “catastrophic” and the victims involved were seriously injured and transported to various hospitals for treatment.

On March 24, 2023, a semi-truck carrying siding overturned on I-65, shutting the road down for several hours. The incident occurred in Scott County when the loaded truck collided with another vehicle. Only minor injuries were reported.

Contact an Experienced Indianapolis Car Accident Attorney 

Several factors contribute to the high number of accidents on I-65 in Indiana. Some of these are easy to avoid, but unfortunately some are unavoidable. Indiana drivers should exercise caution and stay alert to minimize the risk of accidents. If you are involved in an accident on I-65 or any other Indiana car accident, it is essential to contact an experienced personal injury attorney for legal assistance. 

The experts at Poynter & Bucheri Attorneys at Law are here for you and ready to help you obtain the compensation you deserve after experiencing a life-changing car accident. Call us today at 1-800-265-9881 or schedule a FREE case review online here.