Alaska is one of the safest states for motorists in the United States. In 2021, the state ranked third with the lowest number of deaths caused by traffic accidents. Alaska has over 14,336 miles of public roads, with four interstate highways running through the state.
In 2020, the most significant number of crash fatalities in the state was caused by speeding, followed by alcohol-related crash fatalities. Weather conditions and rough terrain along Alaskan roads also contribute to high car crash statistics, with poor visibility and snowy conditions worsening the driver's negligence.
Driving on the Alaskan highways can be difficult. While every road has its safety history, some deadly interstate roads and highways have the highest rates of car accidents and deaths in Alaska. These roads include:
These roads have been identified based on their reputation, reported accidents, and fatalities. For the most accurate and current information, consulting official reports or the Alaska Department of Transportation is recommended.
In the event of an accident, the State of Alaska has strict procedures that individuals should follow to prevent additional injuries or property damage. Here are a few straightforward steps that drivers should take:
Multiple road accidents can happen if a car is stuck on the road, resulting in a pileup. Alaska is particularly prone to snow and rain storm conditions, reducing visibility, which contributes to the likelihood of collisions, especially on high-traffic interstate roads. After an accident, the best course of action for drivers to take is to get off the road.
Drivers should turn on the car's hazard lights after getting off the road. Furthermore, drivers should use flares and safety cones to diverge traffic and alert other drivers about an accident up ahead, especially at night or during low visibility. Drivers should place traffic control devices at a safe distance from the scene, allowing other motorists enough time to react accordingly.
Drivers should also ask the emergency medical team to come to the scene if anyone is injured. The state does not require drivers to report a traffic accident in Alaska. However, it is mandatory to report an accident within ten days if it results in bodily injury, death, or damage to property to an extent above $2,000.
Drivers must give out their information and take the names and addresses of the other drivers, car occupants, and witnesses. Drivers should also record the names of the emergency responders or police who will arrive at the scene.
Drivers should take pictures of the scene. These photos can be used as evidence to identify the cause of the collision, to show any pre-existing damage to the car, and for legal and insurance claims.
Drivers should write detailed versions of the events before, during, and after the accidents. They may also ask for witness accounts.
Drivers should get an attorney before filing an insurance claim for damage compensation after a crash.
After accidents, drivers should always keep records of the accident. The most essential documents include police statements, reports, and insurance claims.
Remember, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can significantly impact your ability to recover damages and navigate legal challenges.
To ensure that automobiles are operated safely on the road, every motorist in Alaska should be conversant with the state's driving regulations. Among the essential facts and legislation are the following:
Seatbelt LawSafety belts should be used by all drivers and passengers when the vehicle is moving.
Drivers must secure every child under seven in a child safety seat or booster seat.
MotorcyclistsThe state requires motorcyclists under the age of 18 or with an instructional permit to wear a helmet while on the road.
The state does not have any minimum age requirement for motorcycle passengers. However, passengers under 18 should always wear a helmet. Additionally, unless the driver’s seat is designed to fit two people, a passenger seat must be attached separately to the motorcycle.
Lane splitting is not allowed in the State of Alaska. Even if there is space between two vehicles, drivers should slow down and wait for a lane to clear before overtaking.
Teen DriversIndividuals 14 years or older may obtain a driving license for scooters or motorcycles.
Individuals aged 14 years or older may obtain an instruction or learner’s permit, allowing them to drive cars under the supervision of a licensed driver who is 21 years or older. Individuals must pass a vision and a written test to obtain an instruction permit.
16-year-old individuals can get a provisional driving license if they have had a valid instructional permit for over six months. The student must also have at least 40 hours of driving experience and no previous DUI records. Their provisional license will be valid for two years until the drivers are 18.
The provisional driving license prohibits drivers from carrying passengers under 21 years old except for their siblings. The state also prohibits driving between 1:00 a.m. and 5.00 a.m. These restrictions do not apply once minor drivers reach the age of 18 years.
Impaired DrivingThe state’s law mandates drivers aged 21 or older must have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08% or lower.
The recommended BAC for drivers under 21 is .00%.
Commercial drivers should have a BAC lower than .04% to operate any vehicles.
Distracted Driving LawsThe state prohibits drivers from texting, calling, or using any handheld devices while operating a motor vehicle unless parked or stopped. However, drivers can use hands-free devices or voice communication devices while driving.
Vehicles should not have any screen devices that are in full view of the driver in a normal seated position. However, this rule does not apply if the screens are meant to supplement the driver's view or experience, including GPS or other navigation systems, reverse camera screens, and screen displays to monitor back seat passengers or display passenger information.
Lane Camping
On multilane highways, the state limits the usage of the left lane to passing or overtaking other vehicles. Left-lane traffic should always be faster than right-lane traffic.
Headlight LawsEvery vehicle on Alaskan highways must turn on its headlights between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.
Vehicles should have their lights turned on when traveling on any road that has a sign posted to use headlights.
Drivers must also turn on their lights when there is insufficient light or other weather conditions that might inhibit visibility while driving.
Alaska also has uncommon and one-of-a-kind driving laws unique to the state. Here are some of these laws: