Countdown: States with the Worst Drivers in 2024

Ever wondered which states have the worst drivers? It’s not just a matter of opinion—statistics and studies reveal which states stand out for bad driving behaviors. Let’s count down the states where hitting the road might be a bit more nerve-wracking.

18. Michigan

Michigan faces a high number of drunk driving incidents, contributing to its placement on this list. The state also struggles with winter weather conditions, leading to many road accidents during snowy and icy periods.

17. Alabama

Alabama has a high rate of traffic fatalities, with 18.6 deaths per 100,000 people. Drunk driving and poor road conditions are significant issues, making it a dangerous state for drivers.

16. Missouri

Missouri has some of the most dangerous driver behavior in the country, including speeding and racing. The state ranks fourth highest for the number of fatal car accidents involving speeding (8.28 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and holds the 10th highest number of drunk drivers involved in fatal car accidents (6.2 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

15. Mississippi

Mississippi has the highest number of fatal car crashes of any state in the country, with 31.95 per 100,000 licensed drivers. The state also ranks high for the number of drunk drivers involved in fatal car accidents (7.12 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and drowsy driving incidents (0.73 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

14. Kansas

Kansas faces a high number of fatal car crashes due to drivers disobeying traffic signs, signals, or a traffic officer. The state ranks second highest for such incidents (1.71 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and third for distracted driving accidents (4.32 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

13. Kentucky

Kentucky’s roads have a high number of distracted drivers, leading to deadly crashes. The state ranks fourth for fatal car accidents involving a distracted driver (3.54 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and fifth for drowsy driving accidents (1.07 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

12. Louisiana

Louisiana has some of the worst drivers in the country, with distracted drivers causing a high number of fatal car crashes. The state ranks second highest for fatal car accidents involving a distracted driver (4.42 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and seventh for drunk driving incidents (6.87 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

11. Montana

Montana leads the nation in the number of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes (9.22 per 100,000 licensed drivers). The state also ranks high for speeding-related fatal accidents (7.77 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and drowsy driving incidents (1.03 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

10. Oklahoma

Oklahoma drivers have a high number of fatal car crashes, ranking sixth in the total number of fatal car accidents (24.32 per 100,000 licensed drivers). The state also ranks high for distracted driving accidents (2.01 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and drunk driving incidents (6.3 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

9. Colorado

Colorado’s mountainous terrain and winter weather create hazardous driving conditions. The state also sees a significant number of traffic fatalities and DUI incidents, contributing to its dangerous driving reputation.

8. Texas

Drivers in Texas are among the worst in the country, with a high number of drivers getting behind the wheel while under the influence. The state ranks second highest for drunk driving incidents (8.32 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and also struggles with high rates of drowsy driving and speeding-related fatal accidents.

7. South Carolina

South Carolina has the highest rate of at-fault accidents in the nation, with 12% of drivers having an at-fault accident on their record. The state also has a high percentage of fatal accidents involving alcohol and no seat belt usage.

6. Arizona

Arizona has a high rate of DUI incidents and traffic fatalities. The state’s extreme temperatures and long stretches of highway contribute to its dangerous driving conditions.

5. Florida

Florida ranks poorly due to its high number of traffic fatalities and significant issues with uninsured drivers. The state’s mix of elderly drivers and tourists unfamiliar with local roads adds to the danger.

4. Nevada

Nevada, particularly around Las Vegas, sees a high number of fatal accidents. The state’s roads are often busy with tourists, and the desert environment poses additional risks.

3. California

California has some of the highest insurance premiums in the country, partly due to its high number of DUI incidents and traffic accidents. With congested urban roads and aggressive drivers, California remains one of the most challenging states for driving.

2. Wyoming

Wyoming has the highest number of fatal car accidents involving a drowsy driver (2.93 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and ranks second for the total number of fatal car accidents (25.93 per 100,000 licensed drivers). The state also has high rates of DUI arrests and speeding-related fatal accidents.

1. New Mexico

New Mexico tops the list with the worst drivers in the country. The state has the highest number of fatal car accidents involving a distracted driver (10.16 per 100,000 licensed drivers) and ranks high for speeding, drunk driving, and total number of fatal car accidents (25.65 per 100,000 licensed drivers).

Drive Safely, No Matter Where You Are

No matter which state you’re in, safe driving should always be a priority. Understanding the risks and challenges specific to your area can help you stay more vigilant and prepared on the road. Buckle up, stay alert, and drive safely!

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gleb Usovich.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.