20 States Where Fatal Car Accidents Are Most Common (And How to Stay Safe)

Car accidents are a harsh reality across the U.S., but some states see more fatal crashes than others. From sprawling highways to rural backroads, certain areas pose unique risks. Based on trends in traffic data, here are the 20 states with the highest rates of fatal car accidents, along with tips to keep you safe on the road. (Note: Rankings are illustrative, as fatal crash data varies yearly.)

1. Texas

With its massive road network and high-speed interstates, Texas tops the list. Distracted driving and speeding are major culprits. Tip: Keep your phone down and stick to speed limits, especially on I-10.

2. California

Heavy traffic and urban sprawl make California a hotspot for crashes. Congested freeways like the 405 are notorious. Tip: Plan trips to avoid rush hour and stay alert in stop-and-go traffic.

3. Florida

Tourist-heavy roads and older drivers contribute to Florida’s high crash rates. Tip: Watch for erratic driving near tourist spots like Orlando and use turn signals consistently.

4. Georgia

Atlanta’s traffic snarls and rural highway speeding lead to frequent fatalities. Tip: Give trucks wide berths and avoid tailgating on I-75.

5. North Carolina

Growing populations and distracted driving spike crashes on roads like I-95. Tip: Stay focused and use hands-free devices if you must take a call.

6. Ohio

Icy winters and busy interstates like I-70 make Ohio risky. Tip: Slow down in bad weather and keep winter tires ready.

7. Pennsylvania

Narrow rural roads and urban congestion in Philly contribute to crashes. Tip: Watch for sharp curves and deer on backroads.

8. Illinois

Chicago’s gridlock and rural speeding are a deadly combo. Tip: Keep a safe following distance, especially in construction zones.

9. Michigan

Winter snow and high-speed rural roads drive up fatalities. Tip: Equip your car with all-season tires and reduce speed in storms.

10. New York

Dense urban areas and upstate snowstorms create hazards. Tip: Stay cautious in city traffic and avoid speeding on icy roads.

11. South Carolina

Tourist traffic and rural highways like US-17 see frequent crashes. Tip: Be patient around unfamiliar drivers and signal early.

12. Alabama

Speeding and impaired driving are big issues on Alabama’s roads. Tip: Never drive after drinking, and use rideshares if needed.

13. Tennessee

Mountainous roads and busy I-40 contribute to fatalities. Tip: Watch for sharp turns and keep headlights on in fog.

14. Louisiana

Poor road conditions and distracted driving spike crashes. Tip: Avoid phone use and report hazardous potholes.

15. Arizona

Desert highways and urban sprawl in Phoenix lead to accidents. Tip: Stay hydrated and alert on long drives.

16. Indiana

I-65 and rural intersections see high crash rates. Tip: Double-check at stop signs and yield to oncoming traffic.

17. Missouri

Kansas City traffic and rural speeding are risky. Tip: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and slow down in rain.

18. Virginia

I-95 congestion and distracted driving are major factors. Tip: Use navigation apps to avoid traffic jams and stay focused.

19. Oklahoma

Rural highways and severe weather increase risks. Tip: Pull over during storms and avoid flooded roads.

20. Kentucky

Winding roads and distracted driving cause crashes. Tip: Stay alert on curves and keep your eyes on the road.

Drive Smart, Stay Safe

No matter where you drive, safety starts with you. Buckle up, avoid distractions, and respect road conditions. These 20 states may have higher fatal crash rates, but cautious driving can make every road safer. Let’s keep our highways—and each other—safe.