Accidents can happen at any time and any place. At Marasco & Nesselbush, we see accidents that have occurred during the day and night, in rural streets and city roads, and with drivers young and old. Although each accident’s factors may differ, there are certain streets and intersections within the state that we see more than others.
As we mentioned earlier, accidents can happen at any time. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), on average, there are over 6 million passenger car accidents in the U.S. every year. Road crashes are the leading cause of death in the country, resulting in more than 38,000 people losing their lives each year.
Specifically, in Rhode Island, the accident rate is lower in the state than in the country, and that number continues to decrease. There were 67 fatalities from auto accidents in 2020, which is an increase from 2019, but down from the highest year in the past decade, 2017.
Identifying the most frequent accident locations in Rhode Island can help everyone to be more aware on the road and pay more attention when in these locations and on the road in general. Together, we can bring the number of accidents and fatalities down to zero.
Here are some of the locations with the most accidents:
Interstate 95 (North and South) I-95 is frequently at the top of most articles about most dangerous roads – it is infamous for bad traffic and accidents. While the highway runs through 15 states on the East Coast, Rhode Island has had its fair share of impactful accidents, including a night on I-95 in November 2020 when three people were killed in three separate crashes within 20 minutes.
Â
The 6/10 Connector The 6/10 Connector is currently under construction, with completion expected in fall 2023. The road is experiencing a new traffic flow to aid construction, which causes congestion and accidents.Â
RI 146 (South) at Interstate 95 (South)Â This section of I-95 carries more than 220,000 vehicles per day. It is the busiest section of I-95 in Rhode Island and one of the East Coast’s most heavily trafficked highway bridges. It is currently under construction, which certainly increases traffic congestion, but upon its expected completion in 2025, this congestion should ease, leading to fewer accidents.
RI 146 at Sayles Hill Road This intersection suffers from numerous safety and congestion problems, leading to numerous accidents. Like many other roads on our list, it is currently under construction to alleviate some of these issues. The intersection has been the source of an estimated 85 crashes a year and miles-long backups.
Interstate 295 at RI 37 To anyone who has tried to merge onto I-295 from RI37 during rush hour, the nightmare of the road is well documented. Also under construction, a third lane should help ease the congestion on the road.
As Rhode Island’s trusted injury attorney, we want you to drive safely in your car, truck, or motorcycle, no matter which road you take. As legal and personal resources for the Rhode Island community, we know that accidents can happen anytime. They aren’t limited to one road or section of highway. Remaining vigilant, avoiding driving distracted, and never getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol can help to decrease accidents and keep Rhode Island safe.
