In recent years, Delaware reported 27,830 traffic accidents, resulting in 165 deaths and 7,887 injuries. The state had a high rate of traffic fatalities, with 15.9 deaths per 100,000 population. This rate is significantly above the national average of 12.8.
Such alarming statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight the dangers on Delaware’s roads. Both motorists and pedestrians need to be aware of these risks.
These interstates are the deadliest
The First State’s interstate highways have an even higher death rate than the overall state average, measuring 19.6 fatal accidents per 100,000 motorists. Here are the top six deadliest interstates in Delaware, according to insurance company Assurance:
- I-95 in Delaware (Delaware Turnpike, Wilmington and Newark): Heavy commuter and truck traffic, complex interchanges near Route 141 and the I-495 split, and recurring work zones lead to rear-end, sideswipe, and multi-vehicle crashes in New Castle County.
- I-495 Wilmington Bypass: High speeds and dense tractor-trailer traffic along the Delaware River and Port of Wilmington create dangerous merge and lane-change conflicts, contributing to serious truck and car accidents in New Castle County.
- DE-1 (Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway and Coastal Highway): From Christiana and Dover to Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Bethany Beach, this toll and coastal corridor sees holiday congestion, sudden slowdowns, and frequent rear-end and lane-change collisions across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.
- US-13 (Dupont Highway): A signalized commercial corridor through New Castle, Smyrna, Dover, and Seaford with heavy driveway traffic, pedestrian exposure, and left-turn conflicts that often result in intersection crashes in New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County.
- US-202 (Concord Pike): A dense retail and office corridor north of Wilmington toward Talleyville and the Pennsylvania line, with short ramps, frequent driveways, and aggressive merging that contribute to rear-end and sideswipe accidents in New Castle County.
- US-40 (Pulaski Highway): Between Bear and Glasgow, multiple signals, heavy trucks, and busy cross streets create a high risk of T-bone and rear-end collisions in New Castle County.
Traveling on these highways requires extra caution. The statistics show a clear need for safer driving practices and greater awareness of the dangers present.
Injured on a dangerous highway in Delaware? Pratcher Krayer LLC is a team of Delaware-native, proven trial lawyers with former insurance defense experience who fight for victims of car accidents. We serve New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County. Do not let insurers push you into less than you deserve. Call 302-566-1796 or contact us today for a free consultation.
Delaware among the most dangerous for pedestrians
Delaware also ranks high in pedestrian fatalities. The Delaware State Police released alarming statistics for 2022. These numbers reflect a significant risk for pedestrians and highlight the need for improved safety measures.
Key Statistics:
- 344 crashes involved at least one pedestrian
- 32 crashes caused fatalities
- Of those deaths, 15 were alcohol-related
- New Castle County was, by far, the most hazardous for pedestrians, with 243 total crashes and 24 fatal accidents
Motorists and pedestrians alike face increased risks in the First State from heavy traffic, weather and road conditions and distracted or negligent drivers. Awareness and caution can help reduce these preventable tragedies. By understanding the dangers, you can take steps to protect yourself and others on Delaware’s roads.