Parts of all states in the Lower 48 have experienced subfreezing temperatures recently due to a weather pattern that will keep arctic air in place across the eastern half of the country at least until the end of the month. Driving in winter is significantly more treacherous than in summer due to a combination of challenging weather conditions and reduced visibility. Snow, ice, and sleet can make roads slippery, drastically reducing tire traction and increasing stopping distances. Black ice, which is nearly invisible, poses a particular hazard by catching drivers off guard. Winter also brings shorter daylight hours, fog, and heavy snowfall, all of which impair visibility and reaction times. For this reason, many drivers fear driving in winter, and in particular, certain routes.
Gunther VW Daytona carried out a survey of drivers in each state to identify their most feared roads during winter. Nationally, the top 5 were as follows:
#1 Alaska Highway (Alaska Route 2)
Also known as the Alcan Highway, this route in the top spot stretches from Dawson Creek in British Columbia through the Yukon to Delta Junction in Alaska. While generally well-maintained, winter brings challenges like snow, ice, and reduced daylight. Travelers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and limited services in remote areas.
#2 Interstate 90 (I-90), New York
Running east-west across the state, I-90 is particularly dangerous in Western New York. Lake-effect snow from Lake Erie can lead to sudden and heavy snowfall, creating treacherous driving conditions and frequent road closures during winter months.
#3 Seward Highway (Alaska Route 9)
Linking Anchorage to Seward, this highway is known for its scenic beauty but also for hazardous driving conditions during winter. The combination of narrow lanes and frequent wildlife crossings, along with icy surfaces, increase the risk of accidents.
#4 Pennsylvania Route 6 (U.S. Route 6)
Known for its scenic views, the Pennsylvania stretch of U.S. Route 6 winds through the northern part of the state, including the Pocono Mountains. During winter, this route can become treacherous due to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility.
#5 James Dalton Highway (Alaska Route 11)
Spanning approximately 414 miles from north of Fairbanks to Deadhorse near the Arctic Ocean, the Dalton Highway is notorious for its isolation, steep grades, and severe weather conditions. In winter, the combination of ice, snow, and limited services makes it extremely treacherous. This highway has been featured on television shows like “Ice Road Truckers” and the BBC’s “World’s Most Dangerous Roads,” highlighting its perilous nature.
5 Illinois roads were named among the most feared in the country:
#16 Interstate 90
As part of the longest interstate highway in the U.S., I-90 traverses northern Illinois, including the Chicago metropolitan area. Winter weather can cause significant challenges, with snow and ice leading to increased accident rates, especially in congested urban sections.
#51 Interstate 80
Running east-west across northern Illinois, I-80 is a critical corridor for cross-country travel. Winter storms can lead to hazardous conditions, including slick roads and whiteouts, making this interstate particularly dangerous during the colder months.
#68 Interstate 55
Connecting Chicago and St. Louis, I-55 is a major north-south route that can become treacherous during winter months. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility contribute to a higher incidence of accidents, particularly in areas with heavy traffic.
#85 Interstate 94
Sharing portions with I-90, I-94 runs through Chicago and continues northward. The combination of high traffic volumes and winter weather conditions can result in dangerous driving situations, with a notable number of accidents occurring during the winter season.
#181 Interstate 57
Extending from Chicago to the southern part of the state, I-57 has been identified as the most dangerous highway in Illinois, with 39 fatalities during the summers from 2015 to 2017. Winter conditions, including snow and ice, can exacerbate these dangers, leading to increased risks of accidents.
Infographic showing the 200 most feared roads to drive in America
“Winter driving presents unique challenges, from sudden ice patches to blinding snowstorms, making certain roads far more treacherous than others,” says Joe Gunther IV of Gunther VW Daytona. “Our survey highlights the highways and routes that drivers fear most during the colder months, underscoring the importance of preparation and caution. Proper vehicle maintenance, reduced speeds, and emergency preparedness can make all the difference. Above all, if conditions are truly dangerous, sometimes the safest decision is to stay off the road entirely.”
Gunther VW Daytona had provided some useful tips for staying safe while driving on icy roads in winter:
1. Slow Down
Reduce your speed significantly to maintain better control.
Speed limits are based on ideal conditions—not icy roads.
2. Increase Following Distance
Keep at least 5–10 seconds of distance from the vehicle ahead.
This allows extra reaction time in case of sudden stops.
3. Brake Gently & Early
Apply brakes slowly and smoothly to prevent skidding.
If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure to let the system work.
4. Accelerate Gradually
Avoid sudden acceleration, which can cause tires to spin.
Start slowly when moving from a stop to maintain traction.
5. Steer Smoothly
Avoid sharp turns or jerky movements that can lead to skidding.
If you start to skid, steer into the skid (in the direction you want to go).
6. Use Low Gears on Hills
When going downhill, shift into low gear to control your descent.
Avoid using cruise control, as it can cause your tires to spin unexpectedly.
7. Check Your Tires
Ensure tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread for grip.
Consider using winter tires or chains in extreme conditions.
8. Clear Snow & Ice from Your Car
Remove all snow/ice from windows, mirrors, and lights for visibility.
Clear snow from the roof to prevent it from sliding onto your windshield.
9. Watch for Black Ice
Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, where black ice forms first.
If the road looks wet but isn’t spraying water, it might be ice.
10. Keep an Emergency Kit
Carry essentials like a blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, shovel, sand/salt, water, and non-perishable snacks.
A charged phone and extra battery pack are crucial in case of emergencies.
11. Stay Home if Conditions Are Dangerous
If driving isn’t necessary, avoid the risk and wait for conditions to improve.
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