Chena Hot Springs Road is the epitome of a “scenic route” and a popular tourist attraction year-round. It extends approximately 55 miles outside of Fairbanks, Alaska. After more than 25 years helping injured Alaskans and tourists, Merdes Law Office has learned a few things. These are some helpful reminders that we hope will make driving this route more enjoyable and as safe as possible.
WILDLIFE ABOUND
You can normally expect to see a variety of wildlife on Chena Hot Springs Road. Accordingly, moose are commonly seen in water holes of the Chena River, particularly at Slough Lake (Mile 28) and at the Red Squirrel Campground (Mile 42). Furthermore, at Mile 42, you can expect to find beavers and muskrat on the south side of the road. Pay particular attention to these areas. Drive with extra care.
CAUTION: CURVES AHEAD
Chena Hot Springs Road follows interior Alaska’s contours. Consequently, interior roads are full of blind curves. It has sections poorly designed or furthermore, poorly maintained. Unmaintained sections of Chena Hot Springs Road may be blocked by trees, falling rocks, or other debris. Blind curves increase the potential for injury or death to drivers and passengers. Additionally, blind curves limit the amount of time drivers have to react to oncoming traffic.
FROST HEAVES
Unfamiliar Tourists in Alaska may be unaware of “frost heaves.” Some people say frost heaves turn “pavement” into “wavement.” Others describe frost heaves as a “crumpled blanket.” When the ground repeatedly freezes and thaws during autumn and spring, the pavement pushes upward, causing waves and breaks in the pavement. Frost Heaves can damage cars and lead to accidents. Additionally, frost heaves and blind curves are a dangerous combination on roads such as Chena Hot Springs Road. Above all, slow down.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED
If you have been injured in Alaska, give Merdes Law Office, P.C. a call. We will ensure your claim is honorably presented and asserted under Alaskan law. You can focus on healing. For further information or to schedule a consultation please call 866.452.3741 or visit www.Merdes.com.
Photo by RadioKAOS [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
