A recent report from the financial company MoneyGeek has revealed that nearly 400 people in the United States die in weather-related traffic accidents each year. The report also lists the 20 most dangerous states for drivers during the winter season.
MoneyGeek analyzed data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) from 2020 to 2023, focusing on accidents occurring in rain, sleet, snow, blizzards, or freezing rain conditions, as well as the winter driving fatality rate – the number of deaths per billion vehicle miles traveled.
FARS is a U.S. government database that collects and analyzes data on all fatal traffic accidents in the country, including detailed information on accidents, vehicles, and individuals involved, to identify traffic safety issues, measure road safety, and assess the effectiveness of safety standards and programs. Information comes from police reports, death certificates, toxicology reports, and other sources.
Using this data, MoneyGeek assigned a score from 0 to 100 to each state in the U.S. to determine which states are the most dangerous for winter driving. Michigan topped the list with the highest number of winter driving fatalities, scoring 100 points. There were a total of 156 winter driving deaths in Michigan from 2020 to 2023, averaging 39 deaths per year. Michigan had 46 more deaths than Pennsylvania, which ranked second with 110 deaths and a score of 71.8 points.
The 20 most dangerous states for drivers in winter selected by MoneyGeek are as follows: 1. Michigan; 2. Pennsylvania; 3. Ohio; 4. Alaska; 5. Illinois; 6. Wyoming; 7. Montana; 8. Colorado; 9. Wisconsin; 10. Minnesota; 11. Indiana; 12. New York; 13. Texas; 14. South Dakota; 15. Oregon; 16. Missouri; 17. West Virginia; 18. Kansas; 19. Nebraska; 20. Vermont.
Some states do not experience severe winter weather conditions, such as Hawaii where there were zero winter-related deaths. Additionally, Alabama and Mississippi each only had one death case.
To view the full report and learn about the winter driving conditions in your state, visit the MoneyGeek website.
According to MassLive.com, over 1,300 people die in the United States each year due to accidents on snow-covered or icy roads, with over 116,800 people injured. In 2023 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 320 fatal traffic accidents related to ice and snow weather conditions, estimating 22,293 injury accidents.
The organization warns that preparing oneself and their vehicle for winter weather is crucial. It is essential to have basic knowledge of driving in snow, be prepared for emergencies, and regularly check the vehicle throughout winter for safety.
Basic tips include: driving at a slower speed, maintaining distance, and braking in advance. The reminder to “slow down” is simple yet significant. Other aspects are equally important, such as checking tires (including the spare tire), as cold weather affects tire pressure, ensuring each tire is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
Also, check the lights to ensure they are functioning correctly. Especially before winter weather arrives, make sure the vehicle is equipped with winter windshield washer fluid containing antifreeze. Additionally, prepare some snow items like a shovel, broom, ice scraper, sand or cat litter, blankets, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and a cellphone – they can be very useful in emergencies.
NHTSA also reminds drivers not to text or drive distracted, obey speed limits, never drive under the influence of alcohol, and always wear a seatbelt.
(This article referenced reporting in The Hill).