Rural Roads Most Deadly in Winter Conditions, According to Oklahoma Car Accident Attorney Tye Smith

As winter weather conditions intensify across Oklahoma, analysis of the latest Oklahoma Highway Safety Office data reveals concerning patterns in traffic accidents and fatalities, particularly on rural roads. According to state records, over 15,000 travelers were involved in crashes during severe weather conditions in 2020, with rural US highways and county roads accounting for a disproportionate number of fatal accidents.

“The data presents a sobering picture of winter driving risks in Oklahoma, especially on our rural roads,” said Tye Smith, founding personal injury attorney of 222 Injury Lawyers, who has handled catastrophic injury cases in Oklahoma for nearly 30 years. “Many drivers don’t realize that rural highways can become particularly treacherous during winter conditions due to less frequent snow removal and treatment.”

The Oklahoma Highway Safety Office’s comprehensive analysis shows that county roads accounted for 17.4% of all crashes in 2020, while rural US highways represented an additional 7% of accidents. Together, these rural routes saw a significantly higher proportion of fatal crashes compared to urban roadways.

“What’s particularly alarming is the correlation between weather conditions and crash severity on these rural routes,” explained car accident lawyer Sheldon Smith, who partners with his father at 222 Injury Lawyers in Oklahoma City. “The data indicates that weather-related crashes on rural roads are more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities compared to similar accidents on urban streets.”

Key findings from the state’s analysis include:

• Rural US highways recorded a fatality rate of 3.17 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, significantly higher than the statewide average of 1.53
• County roads saw 4.95 fatalities per 5,000 population in some regions
• Over 40% of rural road fatalities occurred during adverse weather conditions
• Pickup trucks were involved in a disproportionate number of rural road accidents, accounting for 92 fatalities

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation has responded to these concerning statistics with enhanced safety measures across rural routes, including:

• Increased pre-treatment of high-risk rural intersections
• Enhanced monitoring of isolated road segments
• Deployment of additional emergency response units to rural areas during severe weather
• Implementation of new warning systems for hazardous conditions

“While these infrastructure improvements are crucial, driver behavior remains the most critical factor in preventing winter weather accidents,” noted Tye Smith. “The data clearly shows that adjusting driving habits for conditions can significantly reduce crash risk.”

Transportation officials recommend the following winter driving precautions:

• Reduce speed significantly on rural roads, even if they appear clear
• Maintain extended following distances, particularly around curves and hills
• Carry emergency supplies, including blankets, flashlights, and basic tools
• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling rural routes
• Plan alternate routes that stick to major highways when possible
• Keep vehicles properly maintained with adequate tire tread and working lights

The state’s analysis also highlighted specific rural corridors requiring extra caution:

1. Interstate 35 between Oklahoma City and Norman
2. Interstate 44 through rural Tulsa County
3. US Highway 69 in southeastern Oklahoma
4. State Highway 3 in western Oklahoma

“These statistics underscore the importance of thorough preparation and heightened awareness when traveling rural roads during winter months,” said Sheldon Smith. “While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we adapt our driving to meet challenging conditions.”

Local emergency management officials have also emphasized the importance of carrying communication devices and staying with vehicles if stranded, noting that secondary accidents often occur when motorists attempt to walk for help in severe weather.

For current road conditions and winter weather advisories, Oklahoma residents can visit the Department of Transportation website or call their 24-hour road conditions hotline. Additional winter driving safety resources are available through the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City, Tulsa or the surrounding areas, contact 222 Injury Lawyers at www.222injury.com.

About 222 Injury Lawyers

About 222 Injury Lawyers
Founded in 2022 by father-son team Tye and Sheldon Smith, 222 Injury Lawyers represents victims of motor vehicle accidents throughout Oklahoma. With offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the firm brings over 30 years of experience in handling cases involving winter weather conditions and rural road accidents. The firm provides free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis.
Contact:
Tye Smith
222 Injury Lawyers
6421 Avondale Dr., Suite 201,
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Phone: 918-238-7671
Website: www.222injury.com
The firm maintains offices at 6421 Avondale Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, and 1217 E 33rd St., Tulsa, OK 74105.