Summary
- • Mississippi has the highest traffic fatality rate at 25.4 deaths per 100,000 population
- • South Carolina has the second-highest traffic fatality rate at 22.2 deaths per 100,000 population
- • Wyoming has the third-highest traffic fatality rate at 21.5 deaths per 100,000 population
- • Alabama has the fourth-highest traffic fatality rate at 20.7 deaths per 100,000 population
- • New Mexico has the fifth-highest traffic fatality rate at 20.6 deaths per 100,000 population
- • Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 45%
- • North Dakota has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 42%
- • Wyoming has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 41%
- • South Dakota has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 40%
- • Texas has the highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,642 in 2018
- • California has the second-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,563 in 2018
- • Florida has the third-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,133 in 2018
- • Georgia has the fourth-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 1,504 in 2018
- • North Carolina has the fifth-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 1,437 in 2018
- • New Hampshire has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 57%
Buckle up and hold onto your seats, because were about to take a wild ride through the most treacherous states in America to drive in. From the heart-pounding statistics that show Mississippi topping the charts for traffic fatalities to Montana leading the pack in fatal crashes involving alcohol, these states are not for the faint of heart behind the wheel. So, grab your map and steer clear of trouble as we navigate through the dangerous roads of the U.S.!
Alcohol-Related Crashes
- Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 45%
- North Dakota has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 42%
- Wyoming has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 41%
- South Dakota has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol at 40%
- Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers with BAC .08+ at 45%
- Wyoming has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers with BAC .08+ at 41%
- South Dakota has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers with BAC .08+ at 40%
- North Dakota has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers with BAC .08+ at 39%
Interpretation
While the wide-open spaces of Montana may be perfect for spotting majestic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, it seems that some drivers are getting a little too wild themselves behind the wheel. With the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving alcohol and drivers with a BAC over the legal limit, it appears that Montana is living up to its reputation as the Last Best Place...to make a responsible driving decision. North Dakota, Wyoming, and South Dakota might want to consider a new slogan: "Don't let the scenery intoxicate you, slow down and drive safely."
Fatality Rates
- Mississippi has the highest traffic fatality rate at 25.4 deaths per 100,000 population
- South Carolina has the second-highest traffic fatality rate at 22.2 deaths per 100,000 population
- Wyoming has the third-highest traffic fatality rate at 21.5 deaths per 100,000 population
- Alabama has the fourth-highest traffic fatality rate at 20.7 deaths per 100,000 population
- New Mexico has the fifth-highest traffic fatality rate at 20.6 deaths per 100,000 population
- New Mexico has the highest rate of fatal crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled at 1.53
- South Carolina has the second-highest rate of fatal crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled at 1.48
- Mississippi has the third-highest rate of fatal crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled at 1.46
- Kentucky has the fourth-highest rate of fatal crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled at 1.44
- Alabama has the fifth-highest rate of fatal crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled at 1.43
Interpretation
In a world where road rage and distracted driving seem to be the norm, it appears that some states are taking the concept of "giving way" a bit too literally. With Mississippi leading the pack in traffic fatalities, one might wonder if their state motto should be revised to "Hospitality at the Expense of Safety." And let's not forget New Mexico, the land of enchantment and apparently enchanting fatal crashes, proving that even a scenic drive can take a deadly turn. So, buckle up, stay off the phone, and remember, it's not a race to see who can reach the pearly gates first.
Large Truck Crashes
- Wyoming has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving large trucks at 25%
- Nebraska has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving large trucks at 19%
- North Dakota has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving large trucks at 18%
- Idaho has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving large trucks at 17%
- Kansas has the fifth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving large trucks at 16%
Interpretation
It seems like the Wild West spirit is still alive and kicking on Wyoming roads, where the phrase "wide load" takes on a whole new meaning. Nebraska drivers must be giving way too much importance to the phrase "big red," with 19% of fatal crashes involving large trucks reminiscent of a football blitz gone awry. North Dakota residents must be feeling the need for speed, racing against large trucks on their roads at 18%, while Idaho drivers seem to be having a tough time navigating the potato fields with 17% of fatal crashes involving large trucks. As for Kansas, maybe they should reconsider their state motto "Ad Astra Per Aspera" (to the stars through difficulties), because navigating the roads with 16% of fatal crashes involving large trucks is proving to be quite the astronomical challenge. It's clear that these states should focus on road safety before their highways turn into high-risk truck rodeos.
Motorcyclist Fatalities
- Texas has the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities at 410 in 2018
- Florida has the second-highest number of motorcyclist fatalities at 531 in 2018
- California has the third-highest number of motorcyclist fatalities at 488 in 2018
- Pennsylvania has the fourth-highest number of motorcyclist fatalities at 164 in 2018
- Ohio has the fifth-highest number of motorcyclist fatalities at 144 in 2018
Interpretation
In the wild western tangle of highways and byways, the Lone Star State rises to the top of the leaderboard in a macabre competition for most dangerous state to ride a motorcycle in. With a staggering 410 riders meeting their fates on Texas roads in 2018, it seems the saying “Everything is bigger in Texas” unfortunately includes motorcyclist fatalities. But fear not, Floridians and Californians, for the Sunshine and Golden States are hot on Texas’ tailpipe, proving that when it comes to navigating the asphalt jungle, the stakes are high and the risks are real. So, hold on tight and keep your eyes on the road, because when it comes to two-wheeled adventures, there’s no room for error in the race for road safety.
Pedestrian Fatalities
- New Mexico has the highest pedestrian fatality rate at 3.96 per 100,000 population
- Florida has the second-highest pedestrian fatality rate at 3.32 per 100,000 population
- South Carolina has the third-highest pedestrian fatality rate at 3.19 per 100,000 population
- Arizona has the fourth-highest pedestrian fatality rate at 3.09 per 100,000 population
- Delaware has the fifth-highest pedestrian fatality rate at 2.98 per 100,000 population
Interpretation
While some may see these statistics as a race to the bottom, it's clear that pedestrian safety is no laughing matter in these states. With pedestrian fatality rates higher than a Kardashian's Instagram following, it's time for officials to hit the brakes on this deadly trend. Perhaps they should consider installing crosswalks that lead to somewhere other than a heart-stopping encounter with a speeding car. Remember, it's not a competition unless you're running from a herd of Angry Birds – let's prioritize safety over statistics and make our streets safer for all.
Rural Road Fatalities
- Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes on rural roads at 89%
- South Dakota has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes on rural roads at 84%
- North Dakota has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes on rural roads at 83%
- Wyoming has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes on rural roads at 82%
- Vermont has the fifth-highest percentage of fatal crashes on rural roads at 81%
Interpretation
It seems like the wild west is alive and kicking on rural roads, with Montana leading the charge in fatal crashes – making it the ultimate frontier for thrill-seekers with a need for speed. South Dakota follows closely behind, proving that when it comes to dangerous driving, they aren't just playing second fiddle. Meanwhile, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Vermont are all putting the "country" back in country roads, with their high percentages of fatal crashes serving as a stark reminder that even the most picturesque landscapes can be treacherous. So buckle up, folks, and remember: in the land of breathtaking views, it's better to arrive late than never.
Seat Belt Usage
- Mississippi has the lowest seat belt use rate at 77.9%
- New Hampshire has the second-lowest seat belt use rate at 76.4%
- South Dakota has the third-lowest seat belt use rate at 78.9%
- Massachusetts has the fourth-lowest seat belt use rate at 81.6%
- Nebraska has the fifth-lowest seat belt use rate at 85.5%
Interpretation
Despite Mississippi's low seat belt use rate, it seems the real competition for danger on the roads is fierce, with New Hampshire, South Dakota, Massachusetts, and Nebraska all vying for a spot on the podium of peril. In this high-stakes game of "buckle up or bust," these states are making a strong case for themselves as contenders for the title of "Most Dangerous State To Drive In." Remember folks, it's not a race, so slow down, buckle up, and let's all strive to make safety our ultimate destination.
Single-Vehicle Crashes
- Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving single-vehicle rollovers at 47%
- North Dakota has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving single-vehicle rollovers at 46%
- South Dakota has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving single-vehicle rollovers at 45%
- Wyoming has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving single-vehicle rollovers at 44%
- Idaho has the fifth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving single-vehicle rollovers at 43%
Interpretation
If you're looking to experience a thrilling and potentially deadly solo performance, head to the American West where single-vehicle rollovers seem to be all the rage. From the rugged tumbles of Montana to the sharp turns of Idaho, these states are leading the charts in fatal crashes that would make any daredevil blush. Remember, folks, it's not just the landscapes that are rolling in these states – it's the unfortunate drivers too. So buckle up, keep your eyes on the road, and maybe consider traveling in a convoy to add some safety in these rollover-happy territories.
Speeding-Related Crashes
- New Hampshire has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 57%
- Rhode Island has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 49%
- Hawaii has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 48%
- South Carolina has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 46%
- Pennsylvania has the fifth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving speeding at 45%
Interpretation
In a fierce race to the top of the most dangerous state to drive in, it seems like New Hampshire is determined to speed ahead, with a staggering 57% of fatal crashes involving speeding. Perhaps the motto "Live Free or Die" is being taken a bit too literally on the roadways of the Granite State. Meanwhile, Rhode Island, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania are all vying for podium positions in this high-speed spectacle of danger. So, buckle up, hold onto your hats, and remember that speed limits are not just friendly suggestions – they're a matter of life and death.
Teen Driver Crashes
- Montana has the highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 at 21%
- Wyoming has the second-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 at 20%
- North Dakota has the third-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 at 19%
- South Dakota has the fourth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 at 18%
- Maine has the fifth-highest percentage of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 at 17%
Interpretation
It seems that the Wild West isn't just a thing of the past, as statistics point to Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and even peaceful Maine being a wild ride for young drivers. With fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 spiraling off the charts, it's time for these states to saddle up and lasso in some serious solutions to protect their youth and ensure safer roads for all. From the prairies to the mountains, let's wrangle this driving dilemma before it becomes a tale taller than any campfire story.
Total Fatalities
- Texas has the highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,642 in 2018
- California has the second-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,563 in 2018
- Florida has the third-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 3,133 in 2018
- Georgia has the fourth-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 1,504 in 2018
- North Carolina has the fifth-highest number of total traffic fatalities at 1,437 in 2018
Interpretation
In the deadly race for the title of the most dangerous state to drive in, Texas takes the lead with a staggering number of traffic fatalities in 2018. California follows closely behind, proving that when it comes to road safety, the Golden State isn't living up to its name. Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina round out the top five in this morbid competition, serving as a stark reminder that behind the picturesque landscapes and bustling cities lie treacherous roads where caution is more than just a suggestion—it's a matter of life and death.
Uninsured Motorists
- Mississippi has the highest rate of uninsured motorists at 29.4%
- Michigan has the second-highest rate of uninsured motorists at 25.5%
- Tennessee has the third-highest rate of uninsured motorists at 23.7%
- New Mexico has the fourth-highest rate of uninsured motorists at 21.8%
- Washington has the fifth-highest rate of uninsured motorists at 21.7%
Interpretation
In a surprising turn of events, it seems that the race for the most dangerous state to drive in is not won by reckless drivers or treacherous roads, but rather by a sneaky contender - the uninsured motorist. Mississippi leads the pack with an impressive 29.4% of drivers flying under the insurance radar, followed closely by Michigan, Tennessee, New Mexico, and Washington, forming a formidable top five lineup. So, buckle up, dear drivers, because in these states, the only thing more common than red lights might be a precarious game of 'hit and hope they're covered'.
