We’re pretty lucky in the UK that our roads are nowhere near as dangerous as many places in the world. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be careful. In fact, there are countless dodgy roads around the country, and despite people knowing about this for decades, they just don’t seem to be getting much better. So, it’s important to be very careful when driving on the following most dangerous roads in the UK.
A9, Scotland
If you live up in Scotland or are ever passing by, be very careful on the A9, which runs from Perth to Inverness. As beautiful as the scenery is on this road, it’s notorious for snowy and icy conditions in the winter, combined with long, winding stretches. Furthermore, the road’s popularity with heavy trucks makes it particularly tricky, especially in adverse weather, as there’s little room for error when navigating sharp turns.
M25, Greater London
As one of the busiest motorways in the UK, the M25 is known for its heavy traffic and frequent accidents. Though it’s a vital route around London, the sheer volume of cars and lorries often leads to congestion, breakdowns, and dangerous driving. In particular, speeding and tailgating are frequent causes of accidents on this road.
A41, Hertfordshire
The A41 is another major UK road, this time linking London to the Midlands. It’s not without its dangers, though, as it features high-speed stretches combined with busy junctions, leading to an increased risk of accidents. Narrow lanes and high traffic volumes make driving here especially risky, particularly during rush hours.
A30, Cornwall
The problem with the A30 is that it’s notorious for its narrow single lanes and sudden bends, especially through rural areas. Connecting the south of England with the rest of the UK, this road faces a lot of visitors in Cornwall who are unfamiliar with it, often finding themselves caught off-guard by sharp curves and occasional steep hills.
A82, Scotland
Back in Scotland, the A82 winds its way through the stunning Scottish Highlands, but its beauty is often ruined by the dangers it poses. Specifically, it has a reputation for sharp curves, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather. As a result, drivers unfamiliar with the terrain may struggle with sudden twists and turns, making it a hazardous route for those unprepared.
M60, Greater Manchester
Known as the “Ring of Steel,” the M60 encircles Greater Manchester, and is a highly congested motorway with numerous junctions. The sheer volume of traffic can make it feel like a race track, making accidents common here, especially with drivers trying to merge or change lanes at high speeds.
A272, West Sussex
This winding, two-lane road stretches from Hampshire to West Sussex, often crossing through densely forested areas. As with other roads on this list, the sharp turns and sudden changes in gradient make it difficult to anticipate hazards. Additionally, a lack of street lighting at night only increases the risks for drivers.
A1(M), Yorkshire
Another one of the UK’s most dangerous roads is the A1(M), which has long since been a dangerous stretch, primarily due to its high-speed nature and the variety of vehicles using it. Lorries and fast-moving cars often share the same lanes, which creates a risk of collisions, particularly in foggy or rainy conditions. Unfortunately, the road also has its share of sharp bends and sudden exits, too.
M62, West Yorkshire
The M62 is a vital motorway connecting Liverpool and Hull, but its high altitude and winding nature make it treacherous, especially in poor weather. Snow and fog can quickly cause delays, and the presence of large vehicles adds to the risk. Above all, it’s a high-speed route with frequent traffic, which only compounds the danger.
A303, Somerset
Due to it connecting London to the South West, the A303 is often the chosen route for long-distance drivers. The road features several notorious black spots, particularly in rural areas. Single-lane roads, combined with tight corners, can catch out even the most experienced motorists.
A34, Oxfordshire
The A34 runs through the heart of the country, but its mix of busy intersections, hilly terrain, and tight curves can make it a hazardous journey. It’s often heavily congested, especially on weekends when travellers flock to tourist spots. Worse still, the narrowness of certain stretches adds another layer of risk.
A12, Suffolk
The A12 is the main route through Suffolk, but it’s not always the safest drive. The main problems here are poor visibility, sharp corners, and numerous junctions, all of which create a lot of potential for accidents. Additionally, large lorries frequently use the road, adding to the challenges for other road users.
A38, Devon
Running through Devon, the A38 is another popular tourist route for those heading to the West Country. However, it’s prone to sudden drops and tight corners that can catch out drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with the area. As with most roads on this list, poor weather conditions, especially in winter, make this road significantly more dangerous.
A12, London to Colchester
Between London and Colchester, the A12 is scattered with hazards, with traffic volumes being particularly high. Furthermore, the route contains numerous blind spots and narrow lanes, especially through urban areas. Ultimately, the road is a constant challenge for drivers attempting to merge or overtake slower-moving vehicles.
A6, Derbyshire
The A6 runs from the Peak District to the heart of the North West, posing a significant risk for those unfamiliar with its steep climbs and winding curves. It’s a popular route for tourists, but the unpredictable nature of the terrain means drivers need to be cautious when negotiating its twists and turns.
A40, Oxford to Cardiff
Last but definitely not least dangerous, the A40 is an essential route from Oxford to Wales, but it has a long history of accidents. Its narrow lanes in rural areas and unpredictable weather mean that dangers are plentiful. At night, the poorly lit sections of the A40 can be particularly treacherous for drivers, especially on long stretches of road.
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