Navigating the web of U.S. roadways can be somewhat confusing, especially when terms such as highway, freeway, and interstate are used interchangeably. These types of roads are indeed designed for high-speed travel and convenience. But they have differences that all road users in Louisiana, Texas, and all across the U.S. should know. Read on to learn all about interstate vs highway characteristics.
Understanding the Definitions
Highways and interstates both have unique qualities. Characteristics for either type of road can vary from design, funding, and speed limits.
What Is an Interstate?
Interstates are part of the Interstate Highway System, a network of highways designed for long-distance, uninterrupted travel. These roads connect major cities and regions across the U.S., often spanning long distances and through various states. Interstates adhere strictly to federal design standards and are part of the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.
The Interstate Highway System came to life through the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. The act funded the construction of more than 40,000 miles of roads and established guidelines for them. Today, the Interstate System is 46,876 miles long.
What Is a Highway?
In contrast, highways are public roads intended for travel between cities and towns. These roads, which can be state or federally funded, allow direct access to local and regional areas. Highways are a broad category, including U.S. highways, state routes, and other roads. They serve as main arteries for shorter-distance travel within states.
Key Differences Between Interstates and Highways
Various characteristics make U.S. highways and interstates different, and they include:
Federal Standards and Designations
Interstates, such as I-10 and I-220, adhere to strict federal guidelines for construction, maintenance, and signage. They are generally denoted with the prefix “I” followed by a number. Interstate highways are funded at the federal level.
Highways, on the other hand, are roads managed by state or local governments. They may be numbered or have names, such as Louisiana Highway 1 (LA 1).
Traffic Regulations
Interstates typically have higher speed limits of up to 75 mph, although some have higher speed limits. This allows for faster and uninterrupted travel. Highways, particularly in urban areas, have much lower speed limits, frequent intersections, and more traffic signals.
Interstates often have higher weight limits for commercial vehicles, with a general weight limit of 80,000 lbs. These roads also allow for longer commercial vehicles, such as double-truck trailers, to operate, which some highways do not accommodate.
Lane Configurations
Interstates generally have multiple lanes in each direction separated by a median or barrier. In contrast, highways have varying lane configurations, from two lanes to a dozen or more. Many highways are undivided, often only separated by a painted line.
Access Points
Interstates are controlled-access highways that allow vehicles entry at selected interchanges. They have limited access points, with vehicles only able to enter or exit through on-ramps and off-ramps at designated interchanges. This helps to control traffic flow and improve safety.
Highways, on the other hand, have more frequent access points, including intersections, allowing for easier entry and exit. They also make it easier for drivers to access local roads. However, with less control of access, highways are less efficient for high-speed or long-distance travel.
Advantages of Interstates
Benefits of interstates include:
Higher Speed Limits
Because interstates have controlled access, fewer traffic signals, and intersections, vehicles can travel faster to their destinations. This is particularly beneficial for commercial hauling and long-distance travel. Speed limits on interstates typically range between 65 and 75 mph, with even higher speed limits in some rural areas.
Dedicated Freight Corridors
Many interstates provide direct and efficient routes for commercial trucks and other vehicles transporting goods across state lines. The design of interstates allows large trucks, such as 18-wheelers, to maneuver easier, with features such as gentle curves, wide lanes, and overpasses that can handle heavy loads. Dedicated freight corridors are important for the U.S. economy since they facilitate the rapid transportation of goods, helping to meet supply chain demands.
Improved Safety Features
These roads are generally safer than other roads in the U.S., with a range of safety features that help reduce the risk of interstate accidents, including:
- Median barriers: Separate opposite sides of traffic, preventing head-on collisions
- Guardrails: Form a safety barrier to protect motorists who have drifted off the road
- Lighting and signage: Improve visibility and communication with motorists, especially during adverse weather conditions or nighttime
- Controlled access points: Limit the entry and exit of vehicles, eliminating the risks associated with pedestrian crossings, intersections, and traffic signals
- Emergency call boxes: Large, easily visible boxes with telephones that allow direct communication with emergency services
- Rest areas: Offer restroom facilities, vending machines, fuel stations, restaurants, and convenience stores where drivers can take a break when they are fatigued
- Wider lanes: Allow motorists to pass a semi-truck more safely while giving them more space when pulling over to the shoulder
- Gentle curves: Enable large trucks to make turns and prevent rollover accidents
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the Department of Transportation, is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the nation’s interstate system. The agency develops design standards that promote safety and efficiency, making interstates less prone to accidents.
Advantages of Highways
Here are some of the reasons why drivers may prefer using highways, including LA 24 and U.S. 83, for their travels:
Direct Access To Local Areas
Because highways often pass through towns, they are ideal for accessing local communities, businesses, residential areas, and attractions. They have multiple entry points and intersections, making them well-suited for trips that require multiple stops or short-distance travel. This is particularly important for those living in city outskirts, small towns, and rural communities because highways serve as the primary means of connecting them to cities and other regions.
Scenic Routes
Some highways, such as U.S. 1, pass through scenic areas that offer motorists and passengers beautiful views as they drive through the countryside, along coastlines, in deserts, and through mountains. Scenic drives away from the hustle and bustle of cities offer a more immersive experience for tourists and leisure travelers.
Lower Traffic Density
When driving in rural or less populated areas, you may notice lower traffic volumes compared to driving on interstates. Highways typically have fewer vehicles on the road, particularly in areas away from towns and cities or industrial zones. This low traffic makes highways ideal for local drivers, who don’t have to worry about the heavy and fast-moving traffic on interstates.
Disadvantages of Interstates
Here are the drawbacks road users face when driving on interstate highways:
Limited Access Points
This makes it difficult for motorists to access specific locations, especially if they aren’t near off-ramps. Motorists may drive several miles to find an exit, leading to more time on the road. This may be particularly frustrating for local drivers trying to get to residences and local businesses.
Limited access points can also pose problems during emergencies, where you need immediate access to medical facilities, gas stations, or even restrooms. Still, local stores situated along interstates lose business opportunities if they aren’t located close to exits.
Potential for Monotony in Driving Experience
Unlike highways, which offer scenic driving experiences, interstates are generally long, straight stretches that can sometimes bore drivers due to monotony. This can be particularly challenging for long-distance drivers because the lack of visual diversity can contribute to driver fatigue.
Interstates don’t offer opportunities to stop at nearby towns or intriguing spots, making them less appealing for road trips. They bypass such areas, offering a more direct route for motorists.
Disadvantages of Highways
Here are some of the challenges motorists face when driving on highways:
Increased Traffic Signals and Stops
No one likes to get stuck in traffic. If this is a regular occurrence, you are likely traveling on a highway to get to your destinations. Unlike interstates, which have limited access points, highways pass through densely populated towns and cities with lots of traffic signals and crosswalks. Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians and other road users in designated areas. This may increase travel time as well as fuel consumption. Frequent stops on highways may also lead to traffic congestion.
Higher Accident Rates in Some Areas
Accidents are more likely to happen on certain sections of highways due to factors such as:
- Poor road conditions: Rough or uneven surfaces, potholes, and inadequate signage can contribute to catastrophic accidents that result in severe injuries or wrongful deaths.
- Congestion: High traffic volumes on highways in urban areas can result in multiple car accidents.
- Driver behavior: Reckless actions, including speeding and distracted driving, are some of the reasons for higher accident rates in certain sections of highways.
- Intersections: Highways often have intersections, driveways, and access points that lead to industrial zones and residential areas. Such intersections are hotspots for crashes as drivers turn, cross, or merge.
To reduce high accident rates, adequate signage, proper road design, and driver awareness are necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Highway and an Interstate Highway?
An interstate is a road designed for long-distance travel with higher speed limits and limited access points. A highway is any major road that may be governed by state or federal regulations and isn’t necessarily limited access.
Is Route 66 an Interstate?
No. Route 66 is a historic highway that ran from Chicago to Los Angeles. Interstates such as I-4 have since replaced it.
How Many Interstates Are There in the U.S.?
There are currently 71 primary interstates and 323 auxiliary interstates in the U.S.
How Do Interstates Differ From Freeways?
Although these two terms are often used interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings. Interstates are federally funded and maintained highways that are part of the Interstate Highway System, while freeways are grade-separated highways designed for high-speed travel.
Can I Drive a Larger Vehicle on Highways?
Yes, larger vehicles, including trucks, buses, and RVs, can drive on highways. However, some states restrict the weight or size of vehicles that can be driven on highways.
Navigating Interstates and Highways Effectively
The terms interstate, freeway, and highway are often used interchangeably. However, these roads have notable differences. Understanding these distinctions is important when navigating the complex road network in the U.S. and appreciating the design considerations that go into developing a safe and efficient transportation system.
Interstates offer higher speed limits, improved safety features, and dedicated freight corridors, making them ideal for motorists traveling long distances. However, they have some drawbacks, including fewer access points as well as monotonous driving experiences that can contribute to driver fatigue.
In contrast, highways are more accessible to motorists. Drivers can easily access local areas and businesses. Highways also offer scenic views for motorists and lower traffic density, which is appealing for road trips and leisure drives. However, highways have more intersections, frequent traffic stops, and a higher accident rate, particularly in urban areas.
Drivers need to understand these key differences as well as the benefits and drawbacks of highways and interstate roads. This is useful when choosing the best route based on your travel needs. For longer journeys or state-to-state trips, interstates are the better option. For shorter drives to the mall or more scenic drives, opt for highways, which offer a more enjoyable experience. Before deciding on the road to use, take a step back and think of your destination, traffic, and safety.
At Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers, our highway accident lawyers realize that even with all the safety measures the federal and state governments take to keep us safe, accidents still happen. If this is the case and you believe someone else is responsible for your car accident and injuries, contact us online or at (844) 626-1764 today to discuss your options. Our legal team is here to answer any questions you may have.
