Route 66, the legendary highway stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, evokes images of classic Americana, freedom, and adventure. Known as the “Mother Road,” a moniker given to it in John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, this iconic route has attracted millions seeking to experience the heartland of America. However, beyond the romanticism, Route 66 also carries a less celebrated, more ominous nickname: “Bloody 66.” This begs the question: why is Route 66 considered dangerous? Let’s delve into the history and present-day realities to understand the dangers, both past and present, associated with this famed highway.
The Dark Past: Earning the Name “Bloody 66”
Route 66’s reputation as “Bloody 66” solidified primarily during the mid-20th century, specifically from the 1940s through the 1970s. As traffic volume surged, the original infrastructure of Route 66 struggled to cope, leading to a high incidence of fatal accidents. Barry Duncan’s book, Route 66: A Trail of Tears, vividly documents these tragic years, illustrating the dangers through a collection of photographs depicting numerous accidents along the route.
Certain sections of the original Route 66 were particularly notorious for their hazardous conditions. “Dead Man’s Curve” in Towanda, Illinois, stands out as a grim example. The Joplin Globe reported on a harrowing nine-month period in 1941 near Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where a staggering 454 accidents occurred, resulting in 54 fatalities, including 19 American soldiers. Further west, in 1953, The Gallup Independent declared Route 66 as New Mexico’s “most dangerous highway” after 110 deaths within just the first four months of the year. These historical accounts paint a stark picture of the dangers that once plagued Route 66.
Route 66 Today: Is It Still a Risky Road?
Significant changes have transformed Route 66 since its “Bloody 66” days. Over the years, many sections of the original highway have been realigned, improved, or even bypassed by the Interstate system. Remarkably, approximately 85 percent of the original U.S. 66 remains drivable, according to The Route-66, and the vast majority of it is now paved and better maintained than in its early years. These improvements have undeniably made driving Route 66 significantly safer compared to its past.
However, to think Route 66 is entirely without risks today would be inaccurate. The primary danger now associated with driving Route 66 is the potential for encountering extreme weather conditions. The route traverses diverse climates, including parts of “Tornado Alley” in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, where tornado risks are heightened between March and June. Summer in states like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico can bring scorching temperatures well exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Such extreme heat can not only make outdoor activities unbearable but also poses serious health risks like heatstroke and severe sunburn if precautions are not taken. Conversely, winter months can bring surprisingly cold temperatures, even in states like Arizona and New Mexico, demanding preparedness for varied conditions.
Navigating Route 66 Safely: Best Times to Travel
For those planning a road trip on Route 66, choosing the right time of year can significantly enhance both safety and enjoyment. Driving Route 66 recommends April, May, September, and October as the best months to travel. During these periods, the likelihood of encountering extreme weather is considerably lower. Opting for September and October also offers the added benefit of reduced traffic, as summer vacation crowds have typically subsided and children are back in school. By planning your Route 66 journey during these optimal months, you can mitigate weather-related risks and experience a more relaxed and enjoyable adventure on this historic American highway.
