Understanding the difference between a freeway and a highway is important. It can be especially relevant when evaluating fault and legal liability after a crash. In California, these distinctions can impact how a case is handled and what evidence is most important. Keep reading this article to learn the crucial differences between a freeway and a highway.
What Is a Freeway?
A freeway is a specific type of highway designed for high-speed, uninterrupted travel.
In California, freeways are characterized by:
- Controlled access. Freeways have limited entry and exit points, typically through ramps or interchanges. There are no at-grade intersections or traffic signals along the main lines.
- Higher speed limits. Freeways generally have higher speed limits, often ranging from 65 to 70 miles per hour, depending on the area.
- Divided lanes. Freeways have a median or barrier separating opposing directions of traffic. This reduces the risk of any head-on collisions.
- No cross traffic. There are no driveways, pedestrian crossings, or intersections on the main lanes.
Some prominent freeways in California include Interstate 5 (I-5), Interstate 10 (I-10), and Interstate 405 (I-405).
What Is a Highway?
A highway is a broader term that refers to any public road or thoroughfare.
In California, highways can include:
- State highways. Designated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and maintained by the state.
- U.S. highways. Part of the national highway system, such as U.S. Route 101.
- Local roads. Managed by local governments and can vary widely in design and usage.
Highways may have varying levels of access control. Some highways are like freeways, with limited access and higher speed limits. Other highways may have intersections, traffic signals, and direct access to properties.
Legal Implications Between Freeways and Highways in Personal Injury Cases
Understanding whether an accident occurred on a freeway or a highway can influence the legal aspects of a personal injury case.
Some of the impacts this distinction may have include:
- Evidence collection. The type of roadway can affect the availability of surveillance footage, witness testimony, and accident reconstruction data.
- Liability determination. Accidents on freeways may involve different factors, such as speed and traffic flow, compared to accidents on highways with intersections and cross traffic.
- Insurance considerations. Insurance policies may have different terms and conditions based on the type of roadway where the accident occurred.
If you have been involved in an accident, it may be important to discuss the location of your accident with an experienced attorney. Noting the distinction between a freeway accident and a highway accident can help streamline your case preparation and ensure you build the strongest case possible.
