Michael Loria Reported Sept 24, 2024:
Highway violence in the U.S. is escalating, with more drivers facing life-threatening incidents as they travel. USA Today reports a disturbing rise in shootings, road rage, and other random acts of violence on American highways. Recently, a sniper on a Kentucky highway wounded five motorists, leaving bullet-riddled cars and terrified drivers in his wake. In Colorado, a teenager killed a young woman by hurling a melon-sized rock through her windshield. These are just a few examples of the alarming trend sweeping across the country.
Highways, long considered a symbol of freedom and exploration, are becoming increasingly dangerous. Outbursts of violence on these roads leave drivers questioning their safety. The most heavily traveled roads in the U.S., including the 48,500 miles of interstate highways, are now plagued by random violence, fueled by everything from road rage to targeted shootings. Federal data from states like Washington and Texas show highway shootings have increased by over 50% in the past five years, putting motorists on high alert.
One of the most shocking recent incidents occurred on I-75 in Laurel County, Kentucky, where drivers called 911 in a state of panic after being shot at by a sniper. One driver reported, “They just filled my car full of holes,” while another screamed in disbelief, asking why someone would shoot at them.
Washington state has also experienced a significant spike in highway violence. According to state patrol data, shootings on interstates have increased by 55% from 2019 to 2023. One recent shooting spree on I-5 injured six people and targeted as many as 10 vehicles. Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste condemned the attacks, saying, “This is not acceptable. People have the right to travel safely in this state, and we are going to protect that right.”
The increase in highway violence isn't limited to road rage. A USA Today review found instances of young pranksters throwing large rocks at passing cars, causing fatal injuries. One such incident in Colorado resulted in the death of a 20-year-old woman after a group of teenagers hurled rocks at seven vehicles.
The psychological toll of these incidents is substantial. Many drivers express feelings of heightened anxiety when traveling, fearing that their next trip could turn violent. Dr. Robert Brady of Dartmouth Health’s Anxiety Disorder Service explained, “These sorts of events, whether they happen directly to a given driver or are simply present in the news media, can shatter someone’s sense of safety.”
As more guns flood American roadways and tension between drivers rises, the potential for violence continues to grow. FBI data shows that violent crimes on highways, streets, and sidewalks nearly doubled from 2019 to 2022. In Indiana alone, highway shootings have increased dramatically, with over 54 shootings already reported in 2024.
G3 in Knoxville, TN is dedicated to representing victims of all kinds including highway violence. Get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact G3 today for a consultation and let our experienced team assist you through this challenging time. Reach out now, and read the full USA Today article HERE.
