Rural Road Safety: Nationwide outlines hazards drivers often overlook in rural areas

In honor of Rural Road Safety Week, we’re highlighting some commonly overlooked hazards on rural roads, where 40 percent of all fatal crashes in the United States occur.

Rural roads account for more than 40 percent of all fatal crashes in the United States. Despite the data, many drivers still underestimate the dangers in these areas. In honor of Rural Road Safety Week, we’re highlighting some commonly overlooked hazards.

Nationwide Agribusiness representative Laramie Sandquist joined us this Wednesday on Market Day Report to highlight some commonly overlooked hazards on rural roads across the nation.

In an interview with RFD-TV’s Tammi Arender, Sandquist explained why rural roads can be so hazardous, the new Nationwide survey that highlights the perilous disconnects for drivers who are unaware of these dangers, and what drivers should keep in mind while traveling through rural communities.

Related Stories
Michelle Perez shares more about the American Farmland Trust’s resource to help farmers and producers plan soil health improvements.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines the key difference between previous ECAP payments and the Farm Bridge Assistance Program.
Jeff Johnston with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange explains the growing role of Rural America in supporting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
FFA Central Region Vice President Claire Woeppel joins FFA Today to share her story and excitement to connect with FFA members nationwide.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
Midland County Livestock Association President Brandon Mitchell reflects on another strong year for the event, including a premium sale that once again topped the million-dollar mark.
The Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features a competitive steer showcase highlighting top-quality cattle and the accomplishments of driven youth exhibitors.