10 States You Should Never Drive In

By Maria W. • Jun 21, 2024

Traffic fatalities are on the rise, increasing by 12.7% between 2019 and 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While population helps determine fatal crash rates, other factors such as distracted driving can contribute to a state's dangerous driving rates. Here are the top 10 states with the worst drivers, according to Forbes Advisor.

#1. New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment's driving record is... not so enchanting. With the highest number of fatal accidents involving a distracted driver at 10.16 per 100,000 licensed drivers, New Mexico also has the second highest rate in the nation for fatal accidents involving speeding drivers.

#2. Wyoming

Drowsy drivers landed Wyoming right behind New Mexico for most fatal car crashes, and the state carries the top spot in the nation for most deadly accidents for driving while sleepy.

#3. Texas

Meanwhile in Texas, drunk drivers are the problem. The Lone Star State records the second highest rate of fatal crashes involving drivers consuming alcohol at 8.32 per 100,000 licensed drivers. 10 Most Dangerous States to Drive In-1

#4. Oklahoma

With the sixth highest total number of fatal car accidents, Oklahoma ranks No. 8 in the nation for deadly crashes involving a distracted driver.

#5. Montana

Montana clenches the top spot in the U.S. drunk drivers causing deadly crashes, so it's no surprise the state also claims the eighth highest spot for DUI arrests.

#6. Louisiana

Tourists might know Louisiana as the Sportsman's Paradise, but the state also holds the No. 2 spot in the nation for fatal car accidents involving distracted drivers. In addition, Louisiana has the seventh highest number of drunk drivers involved in deadly crashes.

#7 Kentucky

Kentucky comes in at No. 4 in the U.S. for distracted drivers causing deadly accidents as well as No. 5 for fatalities involving drowsy drivers. 10 Most Dangerous States to Drive In-2

#8. Kansas

When it comes to fatal crashes involving drivers who disobeyed traffic signs or signals, the Sunflower State holds the No. 2 spot nationwide. Kansas is also third highest for deadly accidents involving distracted and sleepy drivers. 10 Most Dangerous States to Drive In-3

#9. Mississippi

With the highest number of fatal wrecks in the nation, Mississippi at 31.95 per 100,000 licensed drivers, Mississippi also holds the No. 6 spot for drunk drivers causing deadly crashes.

#10. Missouri

Missouri has the fourth highest rate of fatal crashes caused by speeding drivers. The state also comes in at No. 10 in the U.S. for deadly accidents involving drunk drivers.

The good news is these states can improve their driving environments and increase safety on the roads. Multi-faceted approaches including more effective laws and improved roads, bridges, and other infrastructure can help move these states off the list of most dangerous states for drivers.

Reference: States With the Worst Drivers 2024