El Paso drivers, what would you say if I told you that our city is home to one of the most DEADLIEST highways in the U.S.?! Because apparently that statement is true.

A nationwide analysis of 129,825 fatal crashes found that state highways account for the largest share of deadly accidents, and Texas is very much part of that story.

Over a five-year period, Texas recorded 18,728 fatal crashes, with state highways responsible for 30% of them which is more than interstates (22%). U.S. highways and local streets each accounted for 24%. Nationwide, state highways make up an even larger slice, responsible for 42% of all fatal crashes in the U.S.

TEXAS FREEWAY

TEXAS FREEWAY

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So where are the biggest danger zones in Texas?

According to the analysis, I-10 tops the list with 432 fatal crashes, followed by I-20 (353), I-35 (346), I-45 (264), and US-59 (186). Other high-risk roadways include I-30, US-287, US-84, State Route 6, and US-90.

Experts say state highways are particularly risky because they often mix higher speed limits with intersections, cross traffic, and limited separation between vehicles. Just reading that back to myself gave me anxiety!!

 

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The study also ranked Texas as the second most dangerous state to drive, with especially high risk tied to road infrastructure. While weather and road conditions play a role, experts stress that driver behavior matters most which means that things like speeding, fatigue, and following too closely can quickly turn deadly.

Bottom line: Drive smart, El Paso. Your arrival time is never worth the risk.

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