A recent study by Siegfried & Jensen uncovers the most hazardous roads across Utah and sheds light on the dangers they pose to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Drawing from data provided by Consumer Affairs and the Utah Department of Public Safety, the research analyzes statewide crash statistics to better understand where and why accidents happen most frequently. With over 60,000 crashes recorded in 2024 alone, the findings serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of road safety, especially as Utah’s population and tourism numbers continue to rise.
Despite consistently earning high marks for road quality, Utah still grapples with serious traffic safety concerns. In 2024, the state reported a total of 61,606 crashes, which led to 27,141 injuries and 281 fatalities. These numbers highlight the fact that even well-maintained roads can be perilous when combined with high speeds, heavy traffic, or poor driving decisions.
According to the report, several major routes pose consistent dangers. High-traffic interstates such as I-15 and I-80 are particularly risky due to their fast-moving lanes, constant lane changes, and congestion during peak hours. In addition, Parley’s Canyon, a steep mountain pass, presents challenges such as sharp turns, unpredictable weather conditions, and steep grades, making it a hotspot for both vehicle and commercial trucking accidents.
The study also pinpoints the leading causes behind Utah’s crashes. Speeding remains the top contributor, linked to over 8,100 crashes in 2024 alone. Following closely are distracted driving, which accounted for more than 5,100 incidents, and impaired driving, which continues to endanger lives across the state. The report emphasizes that many of these accidents are preventable and that raising awareness about risky driving behaviors is key to reducing the number of injuries and fatalities each year.
Seasonal trends also play a significant role. January emerged as the most dangerous month for drivers, likely due to winter road conditions such as snow, ice, and reduced visibility. These environmental factors, when combined with aggressive or inattentive driving, increase the risk of serious collisions.
Time of day further influences crash outcomes. Midnight was identified as the deadliest hour for fatal accidents, with reduced visibility, fatigue, and impaired driving being significant contributors. The dangers extend beyond highways as well, local roads like Washington Boulevard see increased pedestrian and cyclist activity, raising the risk for multi-party accidents. The Moki Dugway Scenic Backway, known for its narrow, unpaved, and winding paths, also ranks among the riskiest routes in the state.
Siegfried & Jensen hope this study serves not just as a warning, but as a call to action. With more drivers on Utah roads than ever before, due to both population growth and increased tourism, the firm urges the public to take road safety seriously. Simple precautions like reducing speed, avoiding distractions, and never driving under the influence can have life-saving consequences.
“For more than three decades, we’ve supported Utah families who have experienced tragedy on the road,” a spokesperson for Siegfried & Jensen said. “One of the most effective ways we can improve public safety is by holding negligent drivers accountable and advocating for those who’ve been harmed. But even more importantly, we believe in prevention, educating the public, raising awareness, and pushing for change.”
By highlighting the most dangerous roads and behaviors, Siegfried & Jensen aim to empower Utahns to make safer choices behind the wheel. From everyday commuters to long-distance travelers, every person on the road plays a part in creating a safer, more responsible driving culture. Reducing risks today means protecting lives tomorrow.
