Worst Drivers in America by State

Some states have worse drivers than others.

Worst Drivers in America by State

Car accidents happen on the road across America. But some states have worse drivers than others, and fatal car accidents remain an issue.

In 2019, about 38,800 people died in traffic accidents. Although that number declined from 2017 to 2019, road conditions still affect driving safety, and poor driving habits such as speeding and drunk driving also contribute to a state’s traffic fatality rate.

These factors make roads less safe and also impact insurance rates. Here's how every state ranks, from the best drivers to the absolute worst.

50. Utah

Speeding-related fatalities: 67 (30)

Drunk driving: 16% of fatal crashes (49)

Death rate: 7.74 per 100,000 population (45)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $536

Average cost of full coverage: $1,301

Bottom Line: Utah is known for its scenic roadways that pass through both snowcapped mountains and miles of desert. According to Fodors, the state’s roads vary in size and quality, creating some of the most challenging driving in the world. High elevations mean that winter conditions are possible even in July, and desert driving has its own unique challenges, such as blowing sand and flash floods. Utah’s DUI penalties (a minimum fine of $700 and jail time of 48 hours) may contribute to the fact that the state has the second-lowest rates of drunk driving.

* All driving stats came from Car Insurance Comparison. The numbers listed in parentheses highlight the state ranking out of 50 for that specific stat.

49. Iowa

Speeding-related fatalities: 69 (43)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (43)

Death rate: 10.65 per 100,000 population (34)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $274

Average cost of full coverage: $1,122

Bottom Line: U.S. News & World Report ranks Iowa 17th in road quality but second to last in the integrity of its bridges. While fatal crashes in most states involved mostly passenger cars in 2019, in Iowa, they were more likely to involve light trucks and vans. Only 20 percent of fatal accidents involved speeding.

While speeding fines likely aren’t much of a deterrent in Iowa ($80 for 11-15 mph over speed limits), the 35 percent surcharge just might make drivers think twice about driving too fast. On the other hand, DUI penalties are tough, from 48 hours to a year in jail, plus $635 to $1,200 in fines.

48. New Jersey

Speeding-related fatalities: 105 (41)

Drunk driving fatalities: 23% of fatal crashes (31)

Death rate: 6.29 per 100,000 population (48)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $912

Average cost of full coverage: $1,763

Bottom Line: New Jersey has the third most congested highways in the nation, but they need work. Tripnet ranks the quality of both roads and bridges in the bottom 20 of all states. In 2019, 31 percent of all fatal accidents involved pedestrians, despite the fact that the state formed a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan in 2014.

Surprisingly, New Jersey has one of the lowest death rates overall, with speeding contributing to less than a fifth of all fatal accidents. Speeding fines in the Garden State are not severe ($95 or $105 if 15 mph over posted limits), but higher speeds mean more points against your license, which translates to higher insurance rates.

47. Minnesota

Speeding-related fatalities: 77 (22)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (22, tied with CA, VT and MI)

Death rate: 6.45 per 100,000 population (49)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $625

Average cost of full coverage: $1,622

Bottom Line: Minnesota’s traffic fatality rate is high, with only Massachusetts reporting more deaths. Its interstates are worse than those in 27 other states, but when it comes to bridge conditions, the state ranks 14 in the nation.

In 2019, more passenger cars were involved in fatal accidents (37 percent) than all types of trucks combined. Pedestrians and cyclists accounted for another 16 percent. Only 21 percent of all fatal accidents involved speeding, probably because excessive speeding in the state is expensive. While fines start at $120, going more than 20 mph over posted limits also accelerates the fees — 30 mph over will cost $380.

46. Maryland

Speeding-related fatalities: 139 (35)

Drunk driving: 32% of fatal crashes (29)

Death rate: 8.62 per 100,000 population (44)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $858

Average cost of full coverage: $1,787

Bottom Line: According to Tripnet, Maryland’s interstates are among the most congested in the nation, second only to California. Most traffic deaths were in urban areas and at non-intersections. In 2019, almost a quarter of all fatal traffic accidents involved pedestrians and cyclists, and about a quarter involved speeding. While speeding a little in Maryland won’t cost you a lot ($80), excessive speeding fines can be up to $530.

And even though Maryland ranks in the middle for drunk-driving deaths, penalties are steep, up to a year in jail and up to $1,000 fine, plus a minimum six-month license suspension.

45. Maine

Speeding-related fatalities: 49 (18)

Drunk driving: 32% of fatal crashes (14)

Death rate: 11.68 per 100,000 population (38)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $312

Average cost of full coverage: $831

Bottom Line: Maine’s fatal traffic accidents were split evenly between passenger cars and light trucks/vans; another 11 percent involved pedestrians and cyclists. While the state’s per capita traffic fatality rate is barely above the national average, the number of deaths attributed to drunk driving is high. The fine for driving under the influence in Maine is only $500.

Maine is, however, serious about texting while driving. Offenders will pay $135 and will be charged two points on their driving license, resulting in increased insurance costs.

44. Massachusetts

Speeding-related fatalities: 78 (31)

Drunk driving: 33% of fatal crashes (4)

Death rate: 4.85 per 100,000 population (50)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $478

Average cost of full coverage: $1,399

Bottom Line: Massachusetts has one of the most congested urban interstates in the country, yet Tripnet ranks its pavement conditions among the worst, and its interstate bridges rank fourth from the bottom. A quarter of fatal accidents involved pedestrians and cyclists, and the state reports most of these happened between 3 p.m. and midnight.

Despite having the lowest death rate in the nation, fatal drunk-driving accidents in this state were among the highest, even with fines of $500 to $5,000 (among the highest penalties in the nation). Fewer fatal crashes occurred in far western Massachusetts and on Cape Cod.

43. North Dakota

Speeding-related fatalities: 25 (10)

Drunk driving: 41% of fatal crashes (41)

Death rate: 13.12 per 100,000 population (28)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $349

Average cost of full coverage: $1,211

Bottom Line: According to the Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report, North Dakota’s highway system is in the best condition of the nation. Its bridges, however, rank in the bottom 10. Fatal accidents in the state in 2019 were twice as likely to involve trucks or vans as passenger cars; 21 percent involved a large truck. A quarter involved speeding, and 81 percent occurred in a rural area.

Drinking and driving laws in North Dakota are lax. Fines range from $500 to $750, with a 91- to 180-day license suspension, but no jail time.

42. Tennessee

Speeding-related fatalities: 180 (46)

Drunk driving: 26% of fatal crashes (46)

Death rate: 16.62 per 100,000 population (18)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $358

Average cost of full coverage: $1,281

Bottom Line: Tennessee is more car-dependent than many other states, and residents log more miles per year than the national average. The state’s road quality is ranked second in the nation, and the structural integrity of its bridges is also better than most of the country.

Tennessee ranks as one of the safest states when it comes to speeding deaths, despite comparatively low speeding fines that vary from $40 to $150. Still, the death rate is above the national average. While more than half of these were in urban areas, the rate of rural traffic fatalities is disproportionate to the number of rural miles driven.

41. New York

Speeding-related fatalities: 266 (24)

Drunk driving: 28% of fatal crashes (9)

Death rate: 4.79 per 100,000 population (46)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $1,295

Average cost of full coverage: $2,498

Bottom Line: New York had more pedestrian traffic deaths in 2019 (29 percent) than in passenger car-related accidents (27 percent). The state sits in the middle of the pack for speeding offenses, though fines for first-time offenders can be up to $600. Reckless driving has fines of $100 to $300 for first offenses, plus 5 points.

However, the state is not as harsh on drunk drivers; fines range from $500 to $1,000, and there is no jail time. The state saw a decrease of 3 percent in traffic fatalities from 2018 to 2019. The highest number of fatal accidents in 2019 occurred in Manhattan and Long Island.

40. Kansas

Speeding-related fatalities: 111 (36)

Drunk driving: 22% of fatal crashes (50)

Death rate: 14.11 per 100,000 population (19)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $468

Average cost of full coverage: $1,567

Bottom Line: Kansas takes traffic violations seriously. The state has the lowest rate of drunk-driving fatalities, possibly influenced by its penalties for a DUI, which include at least 48 hours in jail, fines of $750 to $1,000 and a 30-day license suspension. Drivers who cause an accident while speeding or failing to yield are often charged with reckless driving. Penalties include a fine of $25 to $500 and/or five to 90 days in jail.

Kansas’ urban interstates are in good condition, but the state's rural fatality rate is among the highest in the nation. In 2019, the Kansas City and Wichita areas saw the highest concentration of fatal traffic accidents.

39. Idaho

Speeding-related fatalities: 48 (42)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (47, tied with Kentucky)

Death rate: 12.53 per 100,000 population (16)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $337

Average cost of full coverage: $1,055

Bottom Line: Idaho has the least congested urban roadways in the country. Though the state’s urban interstates are in better condition than most, rural interstates rank 22nd. In 2019, there were more truck accident fatalities than those involving passenger cars. Idaho has one of the lowest drunk-driving fatality rates, possibly due to steep penalties.

DUI offenses come with fines of up to $1,000, a 90- to 180-day license suspension and up to six months in jail. Speeding fatalities are also low, at 21 percent. While Twin Falls County saw a 30 percent reduction in fatalities, Blaine County saw an increase of 550 percent. What happened there?

38. Georgia

Speeding-related fatalities: 260 (44)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (38, tied with Ohio)

Death rate: 14.04 per 100,000 population (25)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $640

Average cost of full coverage: $1,746

Bottom Line: Georgia’s roads were ranked No. 1 in the nation by U.S. News; its bridges also made the top 10. Even so, the state’s death rate ranks in the middle, with more passenger-car deaths than those from accidents involving all types of trucks combined.

Those driving while under the influence will spend at least 10 days and up to a year in jail, pay up to a $1,000 in fines and lose driving privileges for up to a year for the first offense. Overall, the state reported a 1 percent reduction in vehicle-related deaths from 2018 to 2019.

37. Ohio

Speeding-related fatalities: 322 (29)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (38, tied with Georgia)

Death rate: 9.86 per 100,000 population (38)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $320

Average cost of full coverage: $998

Bottom Line: Ohio has the 10th largest highway system in the nation and among the worst pavement conditions. In fact, Ohioans joke that the state flower is the orange traffic barrel. In 2019, more than half of all vehicles involved in traffic-related fatalities in Ohio were passenger cars, while pedestrians and cyclists accounted for 13 percent of the total deaths.

Some argue that road design is a contributing factor and that on and off ramps are too close together. While rural areas tend to be more dangerous in Ohio, the Cleveland and Columbus areas accounted for the highest number of traffic deaths.

36. Nebraska

Speeding-related fatalities: 49 (48)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (20, tied with Colorado)

Death rate: 12.82 per 100,000 population (26)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $389

Average cost of full coverage: $1,329

Bottom Line: According to U.S. News, Nebraska has the nation’s sixth-best roadways and among the worst bridges. The state’s roadways are among the least congested but are well used by commercial trucks (Tripnet ranks Nebraska 16th in interstate truck travel).

While Nebraska’s drunk-driving fatality rate is below the national average, the overall death rate is higher than average, and most fatal crashes involved more than one vehicle. The state has made efforts to curb distracted driving; texting while driving is banned, and handheld cellphone use is permitted only by drivers with a full (not provisional) license.

35. Michigan

Speeding-related fatalities: 250 (34)

Drunk driving: 26% of fatal crashes (22, tied with Vermont, California and Minnesota)

Death rate: 9.86 per 100,000 population (37)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $1,219

Average cost of full coverage: $2,105

Bottom Line: Michigan’s urban roadways are in poor condition, and the structural integrity of its bridges fall in the lower half of all states. The state has a higher than average rate of fatalities on rural roadways.

Road-design features such as the “Michigan left” (known in other places as a jughandle) may make roads safer, as does the tendency in the state for slower cars to yield to faster ones on the highway. In 2019, there were fewer fatal accidents up north and in the Upper Peninsula, with the highest number of speeding fatalities happening in the Detroit area.

34. Washington

Speeding-related fatalities: 150 (16)

Drunk driving: 33% of fatal crashes (13)

Death rate: 6.82 per 100,000 population (43)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $408

Average cost of full coverage: $1,305

Bottom Line: Washington rates in the top 10 when it comes to the structural integrity of its bridges, but it is in the bottom quarter of all states when it comes to road quality. The state has among the most congested urban areas. While Washingtonians drive rural roads only about 27 percent of the time, rural roads are the site of half of all fatal accidents.

The average resident drives fewer miles a year than the national average, partly due to the public transportation system in the state’s urban areas. That being said, more fatal accidents related to speeding occurred in higher populated areas in 2019.

33. Vermont

Speeding-related fatalities: 22 (12)

Drunk driving: 19% of fatal crashes (22, tied with CA, MN, MI)

Death rate: 7.53 per 100,000 population (38)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $314

Average cost of full coverage: $1,123

Bottom Line: Vermont is the second least populated state, which means fewer cars on its roadways, most of which are rural ones. According to U.S. News, Vermont is ranked 10th in best quality bridges and 19th in roadways. Though it has the 48th largest highway system, Reason’s Annual Highway Report rates the state’s urban interstate pavement condition the best quality in the nation.

While Orleans County saw a 200 percent increase in traffic fatalities in 2019, most counties saw decreases of a quarter to 60 percent. Overall, there was a 31 percent reduction across the state.

32. Kentucky

Speeding-related fatalities: 114 (47)

Drunk driving: 20% of fatal crashes (47, tied with Idaho)

Death rate: 16.38 per 100,000 population (6)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $738

Average cost of full coverage: $1,850

Bottom Line:U.S. News ranks Kentucky among states with the best road quality in the country, though its bridge quality is in the lower half. Urban area congestion is also low for the state, yet the death rate is among the highest in the nation.

While Kentucky speeding fines are low ($55 to $100), in certain cases, the state may also suspend your driver’s license. DUI fines range from $600 to $2,100 with a 30-day license suspension. The highest concentration of traffic fatalities in 2019 occurred in Louisville and Lexington areas, and the highest alcohol- and speeding-related deaths happened in the Louisville area.

31. Florida

Speeding-related fatalities: 300 (49)

Drunk driving: 25% of fatal crashes (42)

Death rate: 14.82 per 100,000 population (11, tied with Arkansas)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $948

Average cost of full coverage: $2,587

Bottom Line: Florida ranks seventh in the nation when it comes to road quality and third in bridge quality according to U.S. News. It also has the lowest number of speeding fatalities of all states except Mississippi. Despite these facts, it still has among the highest death rate in the nation. Of all traffic fatalities in 2019, 27 percent involved a pedestrian or cyclist.

The highest number of traffic deaths happened in Miami-Dade County (9 percent); the highest number of alcohol- and speeding-related fatalities happened in the Miami and Tampa areas. Pedestrian-related traffic deaths most often happened in the Miami and Orlando areas.

30. West Virginia

Speeding-related fatalities: 85 (20)

Drunk driving: 22% of fatal crashes (45)

Death rate: 14.51 per 100,000 population (5)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $518

Average cost of full coverage: $1,631

Bottom Line: West Virginia has the sixth largest highway system in the country but spends less per mile on its roadways than most other states. Its interstate bridges are among the worst in the nation, and according to Tripnet, the pavement quality of its interstate highways falls in the bottom 20 of all states.

These negatives are somewhat offset by the relative lack of traffic congestion in the state. The highest traffic fatalities in 2019 happened in the Charleston area; the highest alcohol-related deaths occurred in the Martinsburg area.

29. Wyoming

Speeding-related fatalities: 49 (13)

Drunk driving: 25% of fatal crashes (12)

Death rate: 25.40 per 100,000 population (31)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $264

Average cost of full coverage: $1,335

Bottom Line: According to Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report, Wyoming has the worst urban interstate road conditions, and its rural roads rank 26th. Urban congestion and the urban fatality rate are among the lowest in the nation, but the state’s rural fatality rate is higher than 21 other states. Speeding may result in not only a $200 fine but also up to 20 days in jail.

The year 2019 saw a 32 percent increase statewide in traffic fatalities. The highest number occurred along Route 80, particularly in the center of the state.

28. Connecticut

Speeding-related fatalities: 64 (19)

Drunk driving: 38% of fatal crashes (5)

Death rate: 6.98 per 100,000 population (38)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $790

Average cost of full coverage: $1,782

Bottom Line: Connecticut is the third smallest state and has 21,508 miles of roads. While the state boasts more public transportation options than many other states, most people rely on driving their own car to get places, even if only to catch a train, bus or ferry. Unlike many other states, Connecticut’s urban roads are deadlier than its rural ones.

In 2019, 22 percent of traffic fatalities were pedestrians, mostly in the New Haven area. Overall, the state’s highest number of traffic fatalities in 2019 was concentrated along Route 9, followed by the southern corners of the state.

27. Rhode Island

Speeding-related fatalities: 36 (3)

Drunk driving: 44% of fatal crashes (2)

Death rate: 5.38 per 100,000 population (47)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $790

Average cost of full coverage: $2,066

Bottom Line: The smallest state, Rhode Island also has among the lowest number of miles driven per capita. While the state is physically small, it is densely populated. As a result, it has the seventh most congested urban interstates. According to Tripnet, Rhode Island has the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges and among the worst roadways (second to Texas).

It is known as the state to first impose jail time for speeding in 1904 (the driver was going 15 mph). Speeding is still an issue in the state today, despite fines for speeding being among the highest in the nation at $225.

26. Virginia

Speeding-related fatalities: 228 (23)

Drunk driving: 28% of fatal crashes (15, tied with MT, NV, NH)

Death rate: 9.74 per 100,000 population (34)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $398

Average cost of full coverage: $1,136

Bottom Line: According to Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report, Virginia has three of the most congested corridors in the country, placing it among the worst 10 states for congestion. When it comes to road quality, it makes the top 10, while its bridges lag only slightly behind at 16.

Like many states, speeding tickets in Virginia are incremental, but here, speeders pay an extra $6 or $7 for each mile per hour over the posted limit. The highest number of alcohol-related deaths in 2019 happened in the Washington, D.C., area.

25. Indiana

Speeding-related fatalities: 201 (39)

Drunk driving: 26% of fatal crashes (36)

Death rate: 12.02 per 100,000 population (32)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $372

Average cost of full coverage: $1,187

Bottom Line: Indiana has among the worst urban and rural road conditions in the nation. Traffic congestion is also a problem. However, tough laws may contribute to making Indiana one of the safest states in the nation. First-time speeders will pay $100 to $200; speeding while driving recklessly can cost up to $500 and 60 days in jail.

If reckless driving causes someone’s death, you may pay as much as $10,000 and spend up to six years in jail. The highest number of fatalities in 2019 happened in the Indianapolis area.

24. Oregon

Speeding-related fatalities: 139 (40)

Drunk driving: 34% of fatal crashes (9)

Death rate: 11.59 per 100,000 population (13)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $578

Average cost of full coverage: $1,281

Bottom Line: Oregon ranks in the top 10 when it comes to road quality and is ranked 12th by U.S. News for the quality of its bridges. Urban area congestion is high: Reason Foundation ranked it No. 38.

In 2019, there was a 3 percent reduction in traffic fatalities statewide, with the highest numbers occurring in the Portland and Eugene areas, though death rates were high all along Route 5. Oregonians drive slightly more than the average American, and extreme weather conditions in the state mean drivers need to be aware of hazards like mudslides not seen in other areas of the country.

23. North Carolina

Speeding-related fatalities: 307 (37)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (31, tied with Pennsylvania)

Death rate: 13.09 per 100,000 population (21)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $444

Average cost of full coverage: $1,378

Bottom Line: Almost half the concrete that makes up North Carolina’s highways is considered “very poor quality,” and 174 bridges are “structurally deficient.” While speeding tickets are steep at $200, a single violation also can mean an increase in insurance costs for three years. While North Carolina’s urban interstates are in good shape, its rural interstates are less so.

Rural fatalities in the state are higher than any state except Hawaii. New Hanover County saw a 192 percent increase in traffic fatalities in 2019. Across the state, deaths were concentrated in major metropolitan areas, and most pedestrian deaths were in the Charlotte area.

22. California

Speeding-related fatalities: 1,066 (32)

Drunk driving: 26% of fatal crashes (22, tied with Vermont, Minnesota and Michigan)

Death rate: 9.13 per 100,000 population (33)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $611

Average cost of full coverage: $1,974

Bottom Line: Californians like their cars. There are 10 cars in the state to every eight drivers, and the average driver in the state drives almost 1,000 more than the national average. The state has the 17th largest highway system in the country, which, according to U.S. News, includes some of the worst roadways in the nation (only Rhode Island and Texas have worse roads), but the state does rank 19th in bridge quality.

Not surprisingly, California has the most congested urban interstates of the nation, and in 2019, 19 percent of all traffic deaths in the state were in Los Angeles County.

21. Oklahoma

Speeding-related fatalities: 128 (38)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (40)

Death rate: 16.17 per 100,000 population (8)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $445

Average cost of full coverage:$1,741

Bottom Line: Oklahoma drivers account for more miles per capita than almost any other state; in fact, they average more than 5,000 additional miles. The state’s road and bridge quality has much to be desired (ranking 42 in both categories), though many truck owners rack up considerable miles off-roading instead of using highways.

The highest concentration of traffic deaths in 2019 happened in the Oklahoma City area, which also accounted for the highest number of alcohol-related deaths. The year 2019 saw an overall 2 percent decrease in traffic fatalities across the state.

20. Pennsylvania

Speeding-related fatalities: 441 (9)

Drunk driving: 28% of fatal crashes (31, tied with North Carolina)

Death rate: 8.27 per 100,000 population (22)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $374

Average cost of full coverage: $1,372

Bottom Line: Pennsylvania’s 23 interstate highways are among the worst interstates in the nation; Tripnet ranks the Commonwealth in the bottom 20 states for both pavement quality and structural integrity of its bridges. Though interstates account for only 3 percent of the state’s roadways, they carry 24 percent of all traffic in the state, much of which passes through rural areas.

In 2019, the highest number of traffic deaths occurred in the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia areas. While these metropolitan areas also had the highest concentration of alcohol-related fatalities, Philadelphia saw the highest numbers of speeding- and pedestrian-related deaths.

19. Wisconsin

Speeding-related fatalities: 174 (17)

Drunk driving: 32% of fatal crashes (7)

Death rate: 9.72 per 100,000 population (42)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $330

Average cost of full coverage: $1,049

Bottom Line: The quality of Wisconsin’s rural interstates rank in the bottom 10 in the nation, according to Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report, while its urban roads rank only slightly higher. Most residents in the Badger State live in urban areas but use rural roads more.

Residents drive more than the national average in Wisconsin, and old-timers have been known to keep a “winter beater” to drive in winter months while keeping their nicer cars in the garage to protect them from the elements. Speeding tickets range from $50 to $600.

18. New Hampshire

Speeding-related fatalities: 35 (2)

Drunk driving: 40% of fatal crashes (15, tied with MT, NV, VA)

Death rate: 7.43 per 100,000 population (28)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $427

Average cost of full coverage: $1,137

Bottom Line: New Hampshire is the fifth smallest state with the fifth smallest highway system and, according to the Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report, the best interstate pavement conditions in the nation. Despite its size, it ranks 13th in most congested urban interstates.

The state issues harsh penalties for reckless driving (which specifically includes driving at speeds of 100 mph or higher), which include fines of at least $500 and a 60-day revocation of driving privileges for the first offense. Curiously, it is the only state that does not have a law requiring adults to use seatbelts.

17. Mississippi

Speeding-related fatalities: 120 (50)

Drunk driving: 26% of fatal crashes (35)

Death rate: 21.61 per 100,000 population (2)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $482

Average cost of full coverage: $1,719

Bottom Line: Mississippi has the second-highest interstate fatality rate, according to Tripnet. It ranks eighth in commercial truck traffic on interstates and second in interstate fatalities. While it ranks second in vehicle deaths, the state had previously held the No. 1 spot for several years.

While it is the fourth most rural state, more than half of Mississippians live in rural areas, which statistically have more fatal traffic accidents. Compared to the national average of about 50 percent, 98 percent of fatalities happened on these Mississippi roads in 2016. The state saw another decrease of 3 percent in fatalities from 2018 to 2019.

16. Illinois

Speeding-related fatalities: 375 (6)

Drunk driving: 31% of fatal crashes (8)

Death rate: 7.96 per 100,000 population (34)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $462

Average cost of full coverage: $1,400

Bottom Line: Almost 75 percent of Illinois is farmland, which means the state has more rural roads than most, with speeding played a role in 37 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2019. Drunk-driving fatalities also are on the high side in the Land of Lincoln, which is surprising in a state that punishes DUI offenses with up to a year in jail, a $2,500 fine and license suspension of at least a year.

With the exception of Cook County, which saw an increase of 29 percent in fatalities from 2018 to 2019, the state saw mostly small increases in traffic fatalities (2 to 5 percent) overall.

15. Louisiana

Speeding-related fatalities: 94 (45)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (30)

Death rate: 15.64 per 100,000 population (3)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $765

Average cost of full coverage: $2,351

Bottom Line: Louisianans rely primarily on their own cars to get around, logging slightly more miles a year than the national average. Even though Louisiana has some of the longest bridges in the world, U.S. News ranked the state 44th in terms of bridge quality. Less than 13 percent of traffic fatalities were related to speeding, likely due to tough speeding laws.

While maximum fines are only $175, speeders may also face 30 days in jail and a one-year license suspension. The state is tougher on drunk drivers; penalties include two days to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine and 90-day license suspension.

14. Missouri

Speeding-related fatalities: 328 (8)

Drunk driving: 27% of fatal crashes (44)

Death rate: 14.34 per 100,000 population (20)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $688

Average cost of full coverage: $1,955

Bottom Line: Missouri has the seventh largest highway system in the U.S., yet ranks in the bottom 10 when it comes to bridge quality. While residents drive slightly fewer miles per year than the national average, the death rate is slightly higher than average.

This may be partly due to the fact that it is the ninth worst state for distracted driving, which curiously bans texting only for drivers 21 and younger and only recommends that drivers not use handheld cellphones while driving.

13. Alabama

Speeding-related fatalities: 216 (27)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (34)

Death rate: 18.97 per 100, 000 population (14)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $435

Average cost of full coverage: $1,513

Bottom Line: In Alabama in 2019, more fatal traffic accidents involved passenger cars (39 percent) than all trucks combined, while pedestrians and bicyclists were involved in 14 percent of vehicle fatalities. Less than a quarter of fatal accidents involved speeding, despite the fact that the state is among the lowest when it comes to speeding fines ($20 for traveling 25 mph or less over stated limits and $40 for going over that).

Aside from Jefferson and Mobile Counties, which saw an increase of 9 percent in fatal accidents, the state saw only a small difference from 2018 numbers.

12. South Dakota

Speeding-related fatalities: 24 (7)

Drunk driving: 27% of fatal crashes (26)

Death rate: 11.53 per 100,000 population (14)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $314

Average cost of full coverage: $1,597

Bottom Line: South Dakota is one of only two states with limited bus service and no Amtrak service at all, so residents have to rely on their cars. However, that doesn’t fully explain why a population of fewer than 900,000 has more than 1.2 million registered vehicles to drive on 82,000 miles of roadway.

While the state ranks sixth in commercial truck travel on the interstates, only 4 percent of traffic fatalities in 2019 involved a large truck. After consistently dropping in numbers in recent years, Beadle, Bon Homme and Fall River counties all had significant jumps in fatalities in 2019 (400 percent, 300 percent and 100 percent, respectively).

11. Arizona

Speeding-related fatalities: 316 (25)

Drunk driving: 27% of fatal crashes (28)

Death rate: 13.48 per 100,000 population (3)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $482

Average cost of full coverage: $1,517

Bottom Line: Arizona has some of the safest bridges in the nation, behind only Texas, Nevada and Florida. In 2019, Arizona saw the same number of fatalities among pedestrians and bicyclists as those in passenger cars. Combined, these made up half of all vehicle-related fatalities in the state.

The state has cracked down on speeding; fines start at $250 for those traveling 10 mph over posted limits and increase $50 per 5 mph thereafter. While a DUI will also cost you $250, you’ll also spend a minimum of 24 hours in jail.

10. Arkansas

Speeding-related fatalities: 132 (33)

Drunk driving: 25% of fatal crashes (19)

Death rate: 16.73 per 100,000 population (11, tied with Florida)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $458

Average cost of full coverage: $1,749

Bottom Line: In 2019, there were only slightly more accident fatalities in Arkansas involving passenger cars than pickup trucks, while the percentage of those involving pedestrians and bicyclists was approximately equal to that of utility trucks (13 percent and 14 percent, respectively). The state has been named the worst for distracted driving. About a quarter of all traffic deaths involved speeding.

While speeding fines are $100, no matter how fast you go, the threat of 10 days in jail may be a sufficient deterrent for some. Pulaski County showed the highest number of deaths in 2019, which was a 17 percent reduction from 2018; White County saw its fatalities double.

9. Delaware

Speeding-related fatalities: 37 (21)

Drunk driving: 24% of fatal crashes (26)

Death rate: 13.56 per 100,000 population (27)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $839

Average cost of full coverage: $1,730

Bottom Line: Almost a third of Delaware’s accident fatalities involved pedestrians and bicyclists. Road conditions and congestion may be contributing factors. According to Tripnet, the state ranks second in congested interstates and for having poor quality pavement. More than 80 percent of fatal accidents happened in New Castle or Sussex Counties.

While there was a slight increase from 2018 to 2019 in most counties, the fatalities in Sussex County almost doubled in the same time. While the most fatalities occurred in the northern section of the state, there were more speeding fatalities in the southern portion.

7. South Carolina (tie)

Speeding-related fatalities: 459 (5)

Drunk driving: 28% of fatal crashes (37)

Death rate: 19.44 per 100,000 population (1)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $537

Average cost of full coverage: $1,568

Bottom Line: South Carolina has the fourth largest highway system in the country and drivers average more miles than most other Americans. The state has the highest rate of fatal vehicle accidents in the nation, almost half of which involved speeding. Inconsistent speeding fines ($15 to $200 for a first offense) do little to deter speeders. The state prohibits drivers from texting, but otherwise has no limitations on phone use.

Pedestrians and bicyclists were the victims of 19 percent of fatal accidents in 2019. The state has among the lowest rates of fatalities due to drunk driving (at the national average of 28 percent).

7. Hawaii (tie)

Speeding-related fatalities: 52 (4)

Drunk driving: 34% of fatal crashes (4)

Death rate: 7.63 per 100,000 population (28)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $354

Average cost of full coverage: $1,234

Bottom Line: Hawaii has the highest number of speeding and drunk-driving fatalities, despite strict laws. Fines for speeding can be up to $200, and even first-time speeders risk a one-year license suspension. The penalty for a DUI is a 90-day license suspension, with fines ranging from $150 to $1,000, but there is no jail time. While only 19 percent of fatal accidents in the state involved a passenger car, 38 percent involved pedestrians or bicyclists.

Tripnet reports that Hawaii’s interstates are in poor condition, despite being among the most congested. While fatalities dropped in Honolulu and Hawaii counties in 2019, they increased dramatically in Maui and Kauai counties.

6. Nevada

Speeding-related fatalities: 87 (26)

Drunk driving: 30% of fatal crashes (15, tied with MT, NH, VA)

Death rate: 9.87 per 100,000 population (22)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $836

Average cost of full coverage: $1,903

Bottom Line: Nevada is one of the least densely populated states, with most of the state being a rural, mountainous desert. Outside of the Las Vegas and Reno areas, congestion is unknown. Despite its geographic size, the state has only 85,000 miles of highway, including two interstates, one across the northern portion of the state and the other through the southern section. Between them is U.S. Highway 50, known as the “Loneliest Road in America.”

The state sits in the middle for its number of speeding deaths, which is surprising given it has the highest speeding fines in the nation, up to $1,000 for first-time speeders.

5. Colorado

Speeding-related fatalities: 239 (15)

Drunk driving: 27% of fatal crashes (20, tied with Nebraska)

Death rate: 10.35 per 100,000 population (22)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $510

Average cost of full coverage: $1,720

Bottom Line: The Reason Foundation found Colorado’s interstates to be in the bottom five in the nation when it comes to interstate road conditions in rural areas. Unlike many other states, Colorado does not charge hefty fines for excessive speeding (only $65 for traveling more than 20 mph over posted limits).

The highest number of traffic fatalities in 2019 occurred in Adams, El Paso and Denver counties. Larimer and Pueblo counties cut their deaths by almost a third, while deaths in Adams County jumped by more than a third.

3. Texas (tie)

Speeding-related fatalities: 1,110 (28)

Drunk driving: 37% of fatal crashes (3)

Death rate: 12.47 per 100,000 population (17)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $708

Average cost of full coverage: $1,974

Bottom Line: Texas has the second largest highway system in the nation. According to U.S. News the quality of Texas’ bridges is the best in the nation, but its roads are the worst. Texas is among the highest in deaths from drunk driving, despite penalties that include three to 180 days in jail, up to $2,000 in fines and a 90- to 365-day license suspension.

One-fifth of all fatalities in the state involved pedestrians or bicyclists in 2019. Fatal crashes were more common in the eastern portion of the state.

3. Montana (tie)

Speeding-related fatalities: 57 (11)

Drunk driving: 36% of fatal crashes (15, tied with NY, NH, and VA)

Death rate: 17.22 per 100,000 population (9)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $316

Average cost of full coverage: $1,365

Bottom Line: Montana’s roads are in fairly good shape (ranking 10th by U.S. News), but the state has the fifth highest rural road fatality rate in the nation. It’s no surprise that speeding is a concern in Montana; up until 1999, the state didn’t even have set speed limits, and the current $70 fine for speeding is among the lowest in the nation.

While distracted driving is an issue, Montana is the only state to not have a ban on texting or cellphone use while driving. (However, some cities have passed laws prohibiting drivers from using handheld devices.)

2. New Mexico

Speeding-related fatalities: 156 (14)

Drunk driving: 31% of fatal crashes (11)

Death rate: 20.22 per 100,000 population (9)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $370

Average cost of full coverage: $1,374

Bottom Line: New Mexico’s roadside vistas are magnificent, but the state ranks near the bottom when it comes to road quality, which tends to get worse as you travel south through more isolated areas. The state offers some unique driving hazards, such as sandstorms and drifting tumbleweed (warnings for both may appear on roadside alert signs).

It has the worst record of careless driving in the nation, and 22 percent of traffic deaths involve pedestrians or bicyclists. Speeding fines are moderate and range from $30 to $200. In 2019, Bernalillo County reported the most driving fatalities (25 percent of the state's total).

1. Alaska

Speeding-related fatalities: 29 (1)

Drunk driving: 33% of fatal crashes (1)

Death rate: 9.16 per 100,000 population (6)

Average cost of minimum coverage: $467

Average cost of full coverage: $1,388

Bottom Line: This leads us to the state with the absolute worst drivers. To be fair, Alaska’s rural roads are the worst in the country, which is not surprising when you consider that the Alaska Highway wasn’t fully paved until 1992. Unlike many other states, most of the vehicle miles driven are on urban roads, simply because there are not many other places to drive. Despite this, more deaths tend to occur on rural roads.

In 2019, Alaska had more deaths due to speeding and alcohol use than any other state, even though first-time speeding offenders are fined up to $300. Most driving-related fatalities occurred in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, followed closely by Anchorage Borough.