I’ve spent plenty of time on the road in my own rig, and I’ve seen my fair share of tricky highways.
To help keep your travels smooth and safe, I’m sharing some insider tips on five highways in the Northeast that are best avoided when you’re driving an RV.
Let’s find out why!
1. Interstate 95 through New York City
I-95 through New York City is a beast, even for the most experienced drivers. The traffic is relentless, the lanes are narrow, and the drivers are, well, a bit aggressive.
If you can, steer clear of this route and opt for I-287 to bypass the city. Trust me, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress.
Why Avoid It: Heavy traffic, narrow lanes, and aggressive drivers make this route extremely stressful and potentially dangerous for RVs.
Statistics and Data:
- Average Daily Traffic: Approximately 200,000 vehicles.
- Accident Rate: One of the highest in New York City, with over 15,000 accidents annually.
- Average Speed During Peak Hours: 10-20 mph.
2. I-84 in Connecticut
I-84 in Connecticut might look like a decent route on the map, but in reality, it’s a minefield of potholes and construction zones.
Add in the heavy truck traffic, and it’s a recipe for a bumpy, uncomfortable, and potentially damaging ride for your RV.
Why Avoid It: Poor road conditions, construction zones, and heavy truck traffic create a challenging and potentially damaging route for RVs.
Statistics and Data:
- Average Daily Traffic: Approximately 85,000 vehicles.
- Accident Rate: Around 2,000 accidents annually.
- Road Condition Rating: Rated as “poor” in several sections by the Federal Highway Administration.
3. The Taconic State Parkway in New York
The Taconic State Parkway is a beautiful drive, but it’s not meant for RVs. The lanes are narrow, the curves are sharp, and the bridges are low.
It’s restricted for a reason, folks. Stick to the RV-friendly routes and save yourself the hassle—and the potential fines.
Why Avoid It: Narrow lanes, sharp curves, low bridges, and restrictions on large vehicles make this parkway unsuitable and risky for RV travel.
Statistics and Data:
- Average Daily Traffic: Approximately 40,000 vehicles.
- Accident Rate: Over 1,200 accidents annually.
- Bridge Clearances: Many bridges have clearances as low as 8 feet.
4. Massachusetts Route 2
Route 2 is another scenic beauty, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The western section has steep grades and winding roads that can be tough on an RV.
Plus, it’s pretty narrow in spots. If you’re not up for a white-knuckle drive, you might want to find an alternate route.
Why Avoid It: Steep grades, winding sections, and narrow roadways present significant navigational challenges for RVs, with limited rest areas for breaks.
Statistics and Data:
- Average Daily Traffic: Approximately 30,000 vehicles.
- Accident Rate: About 1,000 accidents annually.
- Road Condition Rating: Mixed, with sections rated from “fair” to “poor.”
5. The Garden State Parkway (Northern Section) in New Jersey
The northern section of the Garden State Parkway is busy, narrow, and packed with toll plazas.
During peak hours, it can feel like a parking lot. Navigating this stretch in an RV can be a real headache, so it’s best to find a different route if you can.
Why Avoid It: Heavy traffic, narrow lanes, and multiple toll plazas contribute to a stressful and time-consuming journey for RV drivers.
Statistics and Data:
- Average Daily Traffic: Approximately 150,000 vehicles.
- Accident Rate: Around 3,000 accidents annually.
- Average Toll Plaza Wait Time: Up to 10 minutes during peak hours.
Don’t Dive These Highways in the Northeast if You Can Avoid It
I hope these tips help you avoid some of the most challenging highways in the Northeast. By steering clear of these routes, you can keep your journey safe, smooth, and enjoyable.
Remember, the open road is all about freedom and adventure—let’s keep it that way!
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