Unveiling The Top Risky States For Drivers

Car accidents remain a leading cause of death for adults and children across the United States, impacting countless lives each year.

Newsweek published a recent analysis by Forbes Advisor on the states where driving is particularly hazardous. By examining data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), researchers evaluated five key metrics to determine the relative safety of each state.

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These metrics include fatal car accidents per capita, fatalities per capita, changes in fatality rates from 2020 to 2021, and the percentage of accidents caused by negligent driving. Each factor was weighted and combined into a score for each state, scaled out of 100.

Rural Highways and Mountain Passes: Unique Risks in the Most Dangerous Driving States

Notably, the analysis highlights that many of the most dangerous states for drivers feature rural highways with unique challenges, such as winding mountain passes. These routes, often picturesque, can become treacherous due to their sharp curves, limited visibility, and unpredictable weather. Montana, for instance, topped the list as the most dangerous state for drivers, a distinction largely attributed to its extensive network of rural, mountainous roads and high-speed limits.

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How Did Our Region Do

North Dakota ranked 27th, placing it in the middle of the list. Despite its vast rural areas and harsh winter driving conditions, our roadways appear relatively safer compared to our western neighbor. South Dakota, however, scored 12th, indicating a higher incidence of fatal accidents than North Dakota. Minnesota fared considerably better than the Dakotas and Montana, coming in at 45th, likely due to more stringent road safety measures and fewer mountainous terrains.

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The report underscores the influence of geography and road conditions on driving risks. States with winding rural highways and mountainous landscapes face additional challenges in promoting safe driving. Ultimately, while state rankings can vary significantly, the data emphasizes the need for caution, especially on rural roads.

Whether on the snowy plains of North Dakota or the rugged passes of Montana, drivers should remain vigilant and prioritize safety to reduce their risk of fatal accidents.