Maine Intersections

Maine’s scenic highways and coastal roads can give drivers a false sense of security, but some of the state’s deadliest stretches lie beneath the beauty. From icy winter conditions on rural backroads to congested urban corridors near Portland, accidents can happen in an instant. Each year, Maine records hundreds of crashes that lead to injuries and fatalities, with certain intersections and highway segments repeatedly ranking as high-risk.

Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists must navigate challenges unique to the state, including harsh winter weather, narrow or poorly lit roadways, and wildlife crossings. Even familiar routes can become dangerous in poor conditions, and seasonal spikes in traffic, like summer tourism along coastal roads, add to the risk.

Maine Crash Trends at a Glance

1. Annual fatalities: Approximately 250–270 traffic deaths each year.
2. High-risk factors: Weather-related crashes, wildlife collisions, and rural high-speed zones contribute heavily.
3. Rural vs. urban: Rural roads have higher per-mile fatality rates despite lower traffic volumes than urban highways.
4. Peak months: January, February, and December see elevated winter-related crash rates, while July and August see more collisions in coastal tourist areas.
5. Common crash types: Rear-end, angle collisions, run-off-road accidents, and pedestrian-involved crashes dominate Maine’s high-risk locations.

The Most Dangerous Traffic Locations in Maine

1. I-295 near Portland Exit 7

This busy stretch of I-295 sees heavy traffic merging from multiple ramps, especially during morning and evening rush hours. From 2018 to 2022, this corridor recorded 16 fatal crashes resulting in 18 deaths. Sudden stops in congested lanes often trigger rear-end collisions, while fog and winter storms reduce visibility, increasing risk. The complex interchange layout and nearby industrial zones create confusion, leading to sideswipe and angle crashes. Narrow shoulders limit emergency maneuvering, making this stretch particularly challenging for commuters and truck drivers.

2. US Route 1 at Falmouth Road

The intersection of US-1 and Falmouth Road is a hotspot for suburban crashes, with 13 fatal crashes and 14 fatalities between 2018 and 2022. High turning volumes, poorly marked pedestrian crossings, and inconsistent signal timing create frequent rear-end collisions and conflicts. Seasonal tourist surges and nearby schools further increase the danger during peak hours. Drivers unfamiliar with the layout often misjudge gaps, contributing to the high crash rate in this corridor.

3. ME Route 3 in Scarborough

A popular commuter route, ME-3 recorded 12 fatal crashes, causing 13 deaths over the five years. Narrow shoulders, numerous driveways, and heavy morning/evening traffic produce constant conflict points. Slippery conditions from rain and fog are common, while limited lighting makes nighttime travel hazardous. Speeding, run-off-road crashes, and merging conflicts are frequent, particularly near recently developed retail areas, challenging local and unfamiliar drivers.

4. I-95 at Lewiston Exit 75

This interstate interchange mixes freight and commuter traffic and is prone to collisions. From 2018 to 2022, there were 14 fatal crashes resulting in 15 fatalities. Construction zones often reduce lane widths and increase merging complexity, while winter storms create icy patches and poor visibility. High truck volumes exacerbate crash severity, and the ramp design frequently confuses drivers unfamiliar with the area.

5. State Route 100 near Farmington

SR-100 is a rural two-lane highway with sharp curves and dense tree cover, recording 11 fatal crashes and 12 deaths from 2018 to 2022. High speeds combined with frequent deer crossings lead to severe run-off-road crashes. Narrow shoulders offer little recovery space, and fog or snow further complicates winter driving. Limited passing lanes and remote location contribute to slower emergency response, highlighting the need for improved signage and wildlife fencing.

6. I-295 southbound at Exit 11

This section of I-295 sees heavy merging from ramps, causing frequent rear-end and sideswipe collisions. Between 2018 and 2022, 10 fatal crashes and 11 deaths were reported. Wet pavement and winter ice make driving treacherous, while nearby shopping centers add turning conflicts. Poor lighting at ramps reduces nighttime visibility, and limited shoulder space prevents safe pull-offs during breakdowns.

7. ME Route 100 at Westbrook

A commercial corridor with heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic, this stretch experienced nine fatal crashes and 10 fatalities from 2018 to 2022. Signal coordination is poor, causing stop-and-go congestion and rear-end crashes. Pedestrian crossings are inadequately signed, and winter snow often creates icy patches. Multiple driveways and access points increase turning conflicts, complicating user navigation.

8. US Route 302 in Fryeburg

This tourist-heavy route recorded eight fatal crashes resulting in 9 deaths from 2018 to 2022. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, and high pedestrian activity make it challenging, particularly during peak vacation seasons. Seasonal ice, fog, and frequent deer crossings contribute to run-off-road crashes. Limited shoulder space and scenic preservation concerns restrict road-widening efforts.

9. I-95 northbound near Bangor Exit 185

A high-speed rural interstate, this segment saw 13 fatal crashes and 14 deaths over five years. Merging from rest areas and gas stations, speed differentials, and distracted driving contribute to rear-end collisions. Winter storms further reduce visibility and traction. Heavy truck traffic and occasional lane closures increase congestion, complicating travel for commuters and long-haul drivers.

10. ME Route 4 in Skowhegan

A suburban arterial with multiple intersections and school zones, this road experienced seven fatal crashes resulting in 8 deaths between 2018 and 2022. Poor signal timing causes abrupt stops, leading to rear-end collisions, while water pooling in heavy rain adds hydroplaning risk. Delivery trucks, limited sidewalks, and high pedestrian presence near schools exacerbate hazards.

11. US Route 1A in Yarmouth

This scenic corridor saw six fatal crashes and seven fatalities over five years. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic spikes during summer months, and narrow lanes combined with frequent driveway access create conflict points. Seasonal congestion and limited crosswalks increase the likelihood of pedestrian collisions. Nighttime visibility is restricted due to inadequate street lighting.

12. I-295 northbound near Falmouth Exit 15

Frequent rear-end collisions occur on this merging ramp section, which reported eight fatal crashes and nine deaths from 2018 to 2022. Snow and ice exacerbate slippery conditions, while construction lane shifts increase confusion. Limited shoulder space restricts emergency stops, and heavy truck traffic adds complexity for drivers unfamiliar with the area.

13. ME Route 26 near Poland

A rural highway with curves and hills, this stretch recorded five fatal crashes and six deaths over five years. Run-off-road and head-on collisions are common due to speeding, wildlife crossings, and foggy conditions. Narrow lanes and poor visibility increase driver error risk. The route serves commuters and local industry, but guardrails and signage are inconsistent.

14. US Route 202 in Augusta

A busy urban corridor with multiple intersections, this road saw seven fatal crashes resulting in 7 deaths from 2018 to 2022. Inconsistent signal timing and high pedestrian activity near shopping centers elevate risk. Winter ice and a lack of turning lanes further contribute to rear-end and angle collisions. Safety upgrades are under discussion.

15. ME Route 11 near Millinocket

This remote rural highway experienced four fatal crashes and five deaths over five years. Narrow lanes, limited lighting, wildlife crossings, and icy fall and winter conditions make run-off-road and head-on crashes likely. Emergency response times are slower due to remoteness, highlighting the need for signage and speed enforcement.

16. US Route 1 in Brunswick

A commercial corridor with frequent pedestrian crossings, this stretch recorded six fatal crashes and six deaths from 2018 to 2022. Seasonal congestion during summer events increases risk, while limited pedestrian refuge islands and delivery truck activity complicate traffic flow. Crossing compliance is inconsistent, increasing conflict points.

17. I-95 southbound near Portland Exit 48

This interstate segment saw nine fatal crashes and 10 deaths over five years. High commuter and freight traffic and complex interchanges contribute to frequent rear-end and sideswipe collisions. Rain, fog, and construction lane shifts increase the danger. Driver frustration and aggressive maneuvers are common during peak hours.

18. ME Route 9 near Calais

A rural highway with long straight stretches, this road recorded five fatal crashes and six deaths between 2018 and 2022. Speeding, winter storms, and wildlife crossings contribute to run-off-road and head-on collisions. Limited shoulders and remote location slow emergency response, prompting local speed enforcement initiatives.

19. US Route 201 near Skowhegan

A two-lane rural highway with curves and hills experienced six fatal crashes and seven deaths over five years. Wildlife crossings, speeding, fog, and winter conditions increase run-off-road and head-on collision risks. Narrow shoulders provide little recovery room, and emergency response is slower in remote areas.

20. ME Route 127 in Wiscasset

This scenic coastal route recorded four fatal crashes and five deaths from 2018 to 2022. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, and heavy summer tourist traffic create congestion and distraction. Limited guardrails and shoulder space amplify risk, while fog, rain, and seasonal parking near shorelines increase hazards for vehicles and pedestrians.

Common Crash Factors on Vermont Roads

Vermont’s unique mix of rural highways, small-town streets, and limited urban corridors creates distinct risks for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. One of the most significant contributors to crashes is speeding, particularly on rural roads like VT-100 and VT-9, where open stretches encourage drivers to exceed safe limits. Even minor loss-of-control incidents can result in severe outcomes due to narrow lanes, steep drop-offs, and limited guardrails.

Driver behavior and distractions also play a significant role. Accidents are often linked to:

• Smartphone use or in-car distractions
• Impaired driving from alcohol or prescription medication
• Aggressive or inattentive driving during rush hours or seasonal traffic surges

Environmental and infrastructure factors further amplify crash risk. Vermont’s mountainous terrain, frequent fog, ice, and snow can reduce visibility and traction, particularly on winding routes like Smugglers’ Notch. Aging road surfaces, narrow shoulders, and outdated signage contribute to run-off-road and multi-vehicle collisions. Local agencies actively address some hazards, but drivers must remain vigilant to navigate these challenging conditions safely.

Protect Yourself After a Crash in Vermont

Even a minor accident on Vermont’s rural backroads or urban streets can have serious consequences. Weather, wildlife, tight curves, and distracted drivers can turn a routine drive into a life-altering event. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, leaving victims to cover medical expenses and other losses independently.

Prompt action after a crash is critical. Seeking immediate medical attention, documenting the scene, and understanding your legal rights ensure evidence is preserved and supports potential claims. Vermont’s roads present unique challenges, from icy mountain passes to congested commuter corridors, making expert guidance invaluable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Vermont traffic accident, Local Accident Reports can connect you with trusted Vermont personal injury attorneys. They specialize in crash claims, know the local traffic laws, and can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Don’t navigate your recovery alone: call 1 (888) 657 1460 today for free, confidential guidance and legal support every step.