Pennsylvania Among the Deadliest States for Winter Driving

A recent report has designated Pennsylvania as the second deadliest state for winter drivers. A study conducted by ValuePenguin evaluated accident data collected during the winter months around the country between 2013 and 2017. According to the study, Pennsylvania, with nearly 200 fatal winter road accidents, came in just behind Michigan. ValuePenguin,  a consumer research company, analyzed the Fatality Analysis Reporting System by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and combined it with data on below-freezing temperatures.

Assessing the Data

ValuePenguin’s report averaged the number of days with a minimum temperature of 32 degrees or below Each state’s freezing-temperature day averages were then combined with the NHTSA’s fatality numbers.

In addition to the low temperatures, the report also considered crashes where winter-weather conditions were present. Such conditions indicated that the crash was due to winter weather, which included sleet, hail, snow, blowing snow, or freezing rain. The data on Pennsylvania calculated the average of 34.2 annual fatalities per 100 below-freezing days. The five-year total of winter-weather traffic fatalities was 197.

Pennsylvania’s Deadliest Winter Roads

Pennsylvania’s I-80 is the state’s deadliest road in winter. During the five years studied, 12 people were fatally injured on the interstate, which is double the number of fatalities along any other road in the state. The study also points out that I-80, which stretches across Pennsylvania from the New York City area to Ohio, connects the two states that appear next in the list’s state rankings.

Winter Driving Tips

Good drivers should always do their best to be vigilant on the roads, no matter the weather. Everyday advice for safe operation of a vehicle includes driving within the speed limit, avoiding driving while impaired, and refraining from distractions, such as texting while driving. When temperatures drop, drivers in Pennsylvania and elsewhere should step up their usual safe-driving behaviors to consider road conditions unique to winter driving. Driving slower and being more aware of road surfaces can make drivers safer in winter months.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Represent Injured Winter Drivers

Those hurt in winter-related car accidents are urged to contact the experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP. We represent clients in Philadelphia, Reading, Bethlehem, Allentown, Harrisburg, and throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Please call our offices at 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today.