Truck accidents are a serious threat in Iowa due to the high number of trucks operating on the roads every day. Large commercial trucks transport goods across the Midwest, thanks to Iowa’s strategic location. The major interstates and highways create a high-volume traffic scenario, making the roads particularly dangerous for smaller vehicles and pedestrians.
Knowing which parts of Iowa are most prone to accidents can help. For instance, interstate highways are a dangerous zone. In Iowa, roads are labeled as dangerous based on past data involving severe accidents. Highways such as I-80 and I-35, which connect key cities, are infamous for higher accident rates.
However, knowing the accident-prone spots does not solve the problem. It is also important to know what to do if you get into one of these situations. Handling insurance companies, trucking companies, and legal claims can be difficult. It is recommended that you get the help of RSH Legal – Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers to ensure peace of mind.
Areas in Iowa where truck accidents are most likely to occur
- Interstate highways.
Iowa’s interstate highways, particularly I-80, I-35, and I-380, are important transportation routes. These roads experience high traffic, which increases the chances of an accident. The reliance on these particular routes for the transportation of goods is increasing day by day. It is dangerous for commercial as well as passenger vehicles.
- Rural roads and highways.
Rural roads in Iowa pose dangers due to various factors, including sharp curves, narrow lanes, and a lack of adequate lighting. These risk factors can decrease the truck driver’s visibility. The narrow lanes make it difficult to maneuver the vehicle and poor lighting can increase the risk of colliding with a pedestrian, animal, or stationary object.
The risk increases during harvest season when farmers frequently move between fields and markets. In 2021, 72% of fatal crashes in the state occurred on rural roads.
- Urban areas and city streets.
Urban areas, such as Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, are known for their high-traffic roads. The higher number of vehicles creates congestion, more stops, sudden lane changes, and unpredictable driving behaviors. Moreover, urban areas have higher pedestrian traffic as well, which increases the risk of pedestrian-truck collisions.
Another factor that increases the risk in urban areas is the increase in delivery trucks. Hundreds of delivery trucks operate on Iowa roads every day and make thousands of stops. The frequent stops for loading and unloading exacerbate the risk.
- Construction zones.
Construction zones are some of the most dangerous areas to drive around in Iowa. When you are approaching one, you must have noticed a “Drive Slow” sign before you see the construction site. In some cases, the driver does not notice the sign or does not pay heed to it, which results in them injuring a worker or colliding with a piece of equipment.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, there were a total of 821 accidents around construction zones alone. Sometimes, there is a lack of signage, in which case the government entity may be liable for your damages.
- High-risk intersections.
Finally, intersections are among the most dangerous roads to navigate as a truck driver. Some intersections in Iowa have been highlighted, including:
- US Highway 20 and Interstate 380 in Waterloo
- The section of Interstate 80 through Davenport
- The intersection of West First Street and North Ankeny Boulevard (US Highway 69)
Intersections present various risk factors, including increased blind spots, wide-turning radii, and poor judgment regarding clearance.
Are you injured? Call a lawyer!
Being injured in a truck accident puts you in a very difficult situation. Being on the road presents certain challenges, whether they are ranked to be dangerous or not. To secure your future and finances, hire an experienced truck accident attorney in Iowa and start building your case today!