Lane departure crashes are serious and often deadly. These crashes happen when a vehicle crosses the center line or edge line or leaves the roadway altogether. They frequently occur at higher speeds, which increases the risk of severe injury or death.
In 2024, lane departure crashes in North Dakota resulted in 48 traffic deaths and more than 1,200 injuries. Lane departure crashes are especially common in rural areas, where roads may have higher speeds, narrower shoulders and fewer barriers to protect drivers when a vehicle leaves the roadway.
When a vehicle leaves the roadway, drivers often have little time or space to recover. These crashes commonly involve rollovers or crashes with fixed objects such as trees or utility poles, which can lead to severe injuries.
To help drivers stay in their lane, North Dakota continues to implement enhanced safety features, including:
- Rumble Strips: These provide a tactile and audible warning when a vehicle drifts onto the shoulder or over the center line.
- Cable Median Barriers: These act as a safety net to catch vehicles before they cross into oncoming traffic.
- Wider Edge Lines: These improve visibility of the road boundaries, especially at night or in poor weather.
- Stay focused and avoid distractions.
- Slow down and drive at a safe speed for conditions.
- Avoid driving while tired or impaired.
- Wear your seat belt – it helps protect you if you leave the roadway.
- Take extra care on rural roads and curves.
Prevent tragedy on the road and stay in your lane.
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