News Release

COCONUT CREEK, FLA. — A lonely stretch of highway running the length of Indiana’s western edge ranks almost in the middle of a list of the top 50 American roads where drivers most fear to have a mechanical breakdown.

Gunther Mitsubishi, a vehicle dealership based in Coconut Creek, Fla., commissioned QuestionPro to run a survey of 3,000 regular road trippers and ask them to rank which routes in each state across America they fear breaking down on the most.

Indiana’s U.S. 41 came in at No. 29 on the list. Stretching from the Kentucky state line to the Michigan state line, this major north-south route passes through various cities and towns in Indiana. A factor to consider is the variable weather conditions that Indiana experiences, including severe storms and heavy rain. These weather events can reduce visibility and make the road slippery, posing additional risks for stranded motorists. Moreover, the availability of services and amenities along the route can vary, particularly in more rural stretches. Finding immediate assistance or repair facilities may be challenging, and drivers may have to wait for extended periods before help arrives. It’s advisable for motorists to carry emergency supplies, including water, food and blankets, to be prepared for potential delays. Additionally, certain sections of U.S. 41 in Indiana may have limited cell phone reception, making communication with roadside assistance or emergency services difficult.

No. 1: U.S. 285 in New Mexico. The most feared route among American road trippers is along U.S. 285 in New Mexico. This stretch of road traverses vast areas with limited access to services and amenities. Its remoteness means that breakdowns could leave travelers stranded for extended periods before help arrives. The route often passes through arid desert regions, where extreme temperatures can take a toll on both vehicles and individuals. Moreover, the highway stretches across long distances between towns and gas stations, increasing the risk of running out of fuel or encountering mechanical issues without immediate assistance.

No. 2: California’s Death Valley Road (SR 190). Unsurprisingly, California’s Death Valley Road (SR 190) came in second place overall. This iconic road, while showcasing the rugged beauty of Death Valley National Park, presents several potential dangers to stranded motorists. The route traverses a harsh desert environment known for its extreme heat, with temperatures frequently soaring to dangerous levels. This can lead to overheating of vehicles and pose a significant risk to the well-being of people stranded without proper shelter or hydration.

No. 3: Texas’ U.S. 90. Texas’ U.S. 90 was voted as the third most feared. This route often passes through arid regions, where extreme heat and unpredictable weather conditions can be a challenge, particularly during the summer months. The sparse population along certain stretches may result in longer waiting times for help to arrive. Moreover, cellular network coverage can also be unreliable in certain areas, hampering communication efforts.

No. 4: Saddle Road (Hawaii Route 200). In fourth position came Saddle Road (Hawaii Route 200). Saddle Road traverses rugged volcanic terrain and passes through remote areas with limited amenities and services. In the event of a breakdown, finding immediate assistance can be difficult due to the road’s isolation and sparse population. The weather conditions on Saddle Road can be unpredictable, with sudden rainfall, fog or strong winds. This can reduce visibility and make driving conditions treacherous, posing additional risks for stranded travelers. Moreover, parts of the road have steep inclines and sharp curves, requiring extra caution. Cell phone reception can be unreliable in certain sections, hindering communication for emergency assistance.

No. 5: Nevada’s U.S. 50. Rounding up the top five most feared was Nevada’s U.S.  50, known as the “Loneliest Road in America.” This stretch of highway passes through vast stretches of desolate desert and remote terrain, earning its moniker. The road offers limited access to services, towns and amenities, making it challenging for stranded motorists to find immediate assistance. The isolation and sparse population along the route can lead to long waiting times before help arrives, especially in sections where there are vast distances between towns or gas stations. The extreme temperatures experienced in the Nevada desert, ranging from scorching heat during summers to frigid cold in winter, can add to the difficulties of being stranded without proper shelter or resources.

To see the full list, click here.