Here is a list of some of the most dangerous highways in Canada by province:
- British Columbia: Highway 3, also known as the Crowsnest Highway, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in BC due to its narrow, winding roads and high traffic volume.
- Alberta: Highway 63, which runs from Edmonton to Fort McMurray, has been dubbed the “Highway of Death” due to its high rate of fatal accidents. The highway is heavily used by the oil and gas industry, and has been the focus of safety campaigns and improvements in recent years.
- Saskatchewan: Highway 1, also known as the Trans-Canada Highway, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in Saskatchewan due to its high volume of traffic and the presence of large commercial trucks.
- Manitoba: Highway 59, which runs from Winnipeg to the US border, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in Manitoba due to its narrow, winding roads and the presence of wildlife.
- Ontario: Highway 401, which runs from Windsor to the Quebec border, is one of the busiest highways in North America and has been the site of many serious accidents due to its high volume of traffic.
- Quebec: Highway 117, which runs from Montreal to the Laurentian Mountains, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in Quebec due to its narrow, winding roads and high traffic volume.
- New Brunswick: Highway 11, which runs from Shediac to Bathurst, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in New Brunswick due to its narrow, winding roads and the presence of wildlife.
- Nova Scotia: Highway 104, also known as the Trans-Canada Highway, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in Nova Scotia due to its high volume of traffic and the presence of large commercial trucks.
- Prince Edward Island: There are no highways in Prince Edward Island that are considered particularly dangerous.
- Newfoundland and Labrador: The Trans-Labrador Highway, which runs from Labrador City to the Quebec border, has been identified as one of the most dangerous highways in Newfoundland and Labrador due to its remote location and challenging driving conditions.
It’s important to note that safety on highways can vary depending on factors such as weather, traffic volume, and driver behavior. It’s important to drive safely and responsibly at all times, regardless of the road you are on.
What Contributes to Making Highways Dangerous
Several factors can contribute to making highways dangerous. Here are some of the most common:
- High traffic volume: Highways with heavy traffic are more prone to accidents and congestion, which can increase the risk of collisions.
- Poor road conditions: Highways with potholes, cracks, or other damage can be dangerous for drivers, particularly at high speeds.
- Inclement weather: Highways can be particularly dangerous during inclement weather, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, which can reduce visibility and make roads slippery.
- Reckless or distracted driving: Drivers who are distracted, impaired, or engaging in reckless behaviors, such as speeding or aggressive driving, can increase the risk of accidents on highways.
- Poorly designed roads: Highways with narrow lanes, sharp curves, or inadequate signage can be dangerous for drivers, particularly at high speeds.
- Large commercial vehicles: Highways that are heavily used by large commercial trucks can be dangerous, as these vehicles require more time and space to maneuver and can cause more severe accidents if involved in a collision.
- Wildlife: Highways that pass through wildlife habitats can be dangerous, as animals can unexpectedly cross the road and cause accidents.
- Construction zones: Highways that are undergoing construction can be dangerous for drivers, as lanes may be reduced or closed, and traffic patterns may be altered.
It’s important for drivers to be aware of these potential hazards and take steps to drive safely and responsibly at all times. This includes following posted speed limits, maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions while driving, and always wearing a seatbelt.