Motorway Blackspots - The five most dangerous stretches in the UK

Every road can be dangerous if handled incorrectly and drivers are required to remain vigilant against hazards and unforeseen dangers whenever they set out on the road. Yet, some roads are considered more dangerous than others – establishing reputations as notoriously risky stretches of tarmac.

So where exactly are the UK’s most dangerous motorway blackspots?

1. M621 (J2 – J2a)

Named Britain’s most dangerous motorway in 2008, the M621 still sees a large number of accidents and traffic incidences. The stretch between J2 and J2a which is found towards Leeds following the trans-Pennine route of the M62 is noted as a particular risky area. However, it’s considered safer than some A-roads in the region – including the infamous ‘Cat and Fiddle’ single-lane carriageway of the A537, which has been voted the most dangerous road in Britain on numerous occasions.

2. M62 (J27)

Coming off of J27 on the M62, drivers are greeted with the stunning visual sights of the Pennines as they drive between Manchester and Leeds. Whilst the scenery may be spectacular, motorists should proceed with caution and avoid being distracted as more than 40 junctions, blind corners and an uneven road surface make this an exceptionally dangerous stretch of tarmac.

Measuring just 5km in length, an average of 1.80 accidents occur per km of road which is hardly surprising when you consider data from the Royal Safety Foundation Charity claimed one third of fatal accidents occur at junctions – something this road has in abundance.

3. M25

With the entire road covering more than 100 miles, the M25 is one of the busiest motorways in the UK. With variable speed limits and as many as six lanes along some stretches, this road poses a real challenge to drivers.

Named the most dangerous road in Britain in 2001, when it experienced so many crashes in a single month that it generated 85 hours of congestion and 18 road closures, the M25 has improved its accident figures but still remains a dangerous place to drive.

4. M65 (J3)

At only 7km long, this stretch of road which runs from Junction 3 of the M65 to the aptly-named A666 to Bolton has witnessed its fair share of accidents over the years. Whilst accident figures have decreased over recent years, this road still needs to be treated with care by drivers.

5. M5

With an increased number of incidents over recent years, many are beginning to ask whether the M5 is the UK’s most dangerous motorway. Three major crossover incidents occurred in a six month period during 2011 resulting in 3 fatalities and a lot of damage.

These accidents took place on various parts of the road, covering patches of road between Junctions 2 and 3, Junctions 3 and 4, and Junction 8 and 9.

All drivers need to ensure they are covered, and competitive cheap car insurance will help drivers do this. It’s important if you are travelling on long motorway journeys on a regular basis that this is made known by your insurer.