What does the class mention about crashes on freeways compared to other settings?

Crashes on freeways tend to be more severe due to the increased speeds at which vehicles travel. The design of freeways facilitates higher speeds, and when collisions occur at these speeds, the forces involved are significantly higher. This kinetic energy in a crash scenario results in more severe outcomes, including greater likelihood of injury or fatality for those involved.

In contrast, rural areas may have different contributing factors to crashes, such as less traffic but potentially more dangerous road conditions. Urban crashes often involve lower speeds and can include a higher number of vehicles, but the nature and volume of traffic can also influence severity in different ways. The unique characteristics of freeways—where high-speed travel is the norm—create a distinct risk profile for accidents that leads to greater severity compared to crashes that happen in urban or rural settings.