Is it difficult / dangerous to drive in Alaska?
No, driving in Alaska is neither difficult nor dangerous. It might be different from the way you are driving back home. Highways are generally in a good condition, there is not too much traffic and since there are only two big cities, traffic jams are not a problem at all. We do get a lot of daylight during the summer so even driving by night is possible. However, we do not recommend driving when it is dark. There is a lot of wildlife in Alaska and accidents involving it do happen quite often. So even when it is daylight, keep your eyes open for animals approaching the road.
Driving on gravel roads is not a problem either if you know the important rules. There are a lot of big trucks on roads like the Dalton Highway. They have the right of way. If you cross a truck, slow down and stay on the right side of the road but be cautious since the shoulders can be soft. Truck drivers will notice that you reduce your speed and that you care about your vehicle. This will help you to avoid chips and cracks in your windshield. Do not drive too fast as these roads can be unpredictable and you can not see holes and bumps until you are almost there. Take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
If you are driving in winter time, always let somebody know where you are going and call them once you arrived at your destination (even in town). Do not just hit the road without anybody knowing where you are heading to in the below freezing winter months.