Arizona is known for its open roads, scenic highways, and growing cities. But some of those roads come with serious danger. Over the past 20 years, Arizona has seen nearly 1,000 traffic deaths each year. Many of these crashes happen in the same places again and again—on short stretches of major highways in Phoenix and other cities.
We’ve taken a close look at the most dangerous 5-mile stretches of road in Arizona using public crash data and past studies. Here’s what we found.
Arizona’s Most Dangerous Roads
Some roads are more dangerous than others because of how much traffic they carry, how fast cars go, and how complex the interchanges are. In Arizona, the most dangerous roads are mostly in Phoenix and involve highways like the I-10, I-17, and AZ-101.
Top 10 Deadliest 5-Mile Road Segments in Arizona
Here are the ten 5-mile stretches with the highest number of fatal crashes over the past two decades:
- AZ-101 in Tempe (Exits 50–55A)
- 41 deadly crashes
- 44 deaths
- This area includes a major interchange with AZ-202.
- I-10 in Phoenix (Exits 143A–147A)
- 39 deadly crashes
- 47 deaths
- Interchanges with AZ-202, AZ-51, and I-17 make this stretch especially busy.
- I-10 in Phoenix (Exits 136–141)
- 39 deadly crashes
- 42 deaths
- A dense part of the city with shopping centers and schools.
- I-17 in Phoenix (Exits 210–215B)
- 36 deadly crashes
- 44 deaths
- Inside city limits and close to heavy traffic areas.
- I-17 in Phoenix (Exits 203–208)
- 36 deadly crashes
- 36 deaths
- Another busy section of freeway near central Phoenix.
- AZ-101 in Phoenix (Exits 23–28)
- 33 deadly crashes
- 35 deaths
- Connects to several other highways and runs through north Phoenix.
- I-17 in Phoenix (Exits 196–201)
- 28 deadly crashes
- 30 deaths
- Known for frequent stop-and-go traffic and merging problems.
- US-60 in Mesa (Exits 179–184)
- 27 deadly crashes
- 27 deaths
- A well-traveled route through East Valley suburbs.
- AZ-101 in Peoria (Exits 13–18)
- 25 deadly crashes
- 28 deaths
- Serves a growing population and several sports/event venues.
- I-10 in Tucson (Exits 254–259)
- 21 deadly crashes
- 22 deaths
- Tucson’s most dangerous stretch of highway.
Why These Roads Are So Risky
Most of these fatal crash locations are in or near Phoenix. That’s no surprise, since it’s the state’s most populated area and has some of the busiest highways. But it’s not just about traffic volume.
These dangerous segments often involve:
- Merging traffic from multiple highways
- High speeds combined with heavy congestion
- Frequent interchanges, exits, and entry ramps
- Distractions like nearby shopping centers, schools, or event venues
When drivers have to make quick decisions in fast-moving traffic, small mistakes can lead to deadly crashes.
Freeway Interchanges Are Hotspots
Four of the top five deadliest road stretches involve freeway interchanges. These spots require drivers to merge, switch lanes, and slow down or speed up—all while watching for other vehicles doing the same thing. Even experienced drivers can get overwhelmed, especially during rush hour or in poor weather.
For example, the interchange between I-10 and I-17 in Phoenix is one of the busiest in the state. It’s no surprise this area sees a high number of fatal crashes.
What Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe
While we can’t control every factor on the road, there are ways to reduce the risk when driving on these highways:
- Stay focused and avoid distractions like phones or loud music
- Plan your route ahead of time, especially when driving through complex interchanges
- Keep a safe distance from other cars
- Watch for sudden lane changes, especially near exits and on-ramps
- Follow the speed limit, even if traffic around you is going faster
Most importantly, give yourself extra time during rush hours or bad weather. Slowing down and staying calm can help you avoid sudden moves that lead to crashes.
Phoenix: A High-Risk Zone
Of the ten deadliest road segments, nine are in the Phoenix metro area. That shows just how dangerous driving in and around the city can be. More people, more cars, and more highway connections create the perfect storm for crashes. If you live or work in Phoenix, chances are you’ve driven on one or more of these high-risk stretches.
Crash Data Shows a Pattern
Arizona sees nearly 1,000 traffic deaths every year. By looking at 20 years of crash data, experts have been able to find patterns. These same short sections of highway keep coming up again and again. That tells us the problem isn’t random. It’s built into the way traffic moves through the city.
As Phoenix continues to grow, so will the number of cars on the road. That means staying alert and driving smart will become even more important in the future.
Have You Been Affected by a Crash?
If you or someone you love has been seriously hurt in a crash on one of these dangerous roads, you’re not alone. The aftermath can be painful, confusing, and overwhelming. Medical bills pile up. Insurance companies call non-stop. You’re left trying to heal while also trying to figure out what comes next.
Our team is here to help. We handle car accident cases in Phoenix and across Arizona. We know the roads, we know the law, and we know how to stand up for injured people and their families.
Call (855) 257-9467 for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story and help you figure out your next steps.