Fatal car accidents remain a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, with thousands of lives lost each year. While national trends provide a broad overview, examining state-by-state data reveals striking disparities in fatality rates and contributing factors. Some states see far higher per capita deaths due to varying enforcement of traffic laws, road conditions, and even weather patterns. Understanding these differences is crucial for policymakers and drivers alike to implement effective safety measures.

The most common causes of fatal accidents—speeding, impaired driving, and distracted behavior—manifest differently across regions. Rural states often report higher speeds and lower seatbelt usage, while urban areas struggle with congestion and reckless driving. Surprisingly, states with strict DUI laws don't always have the lowest alcohol-related fatality rates. Infrastructure plays a key role, as poorly maintained roads and inadequate lighting contribute to nighttime fatalities. Even cultural attitudes toward risk-taking can influence accident rates in unexpected ways.

Alabama – 930 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Alabama's fatal crash rate is among the highest in the nation, with speeding and rural road conditions being major factors. Many accidents occur on two-lane highways with limited visibility and sharp curves. Alcohol-related crashes are also prevalent, despite strict DUI penalties. Surprisingly, low seatbelt compliance exacerbates fatalities, particularly among pickup truck drivers.

Alaska – 67 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Despite its vast size, Alaska has relatively few fatal crashes due to low population density. However, icy roads and long stretches of remote highways contribute to high per-mile fatality rates. Moose collisions are a unique hazard, often causing severe crashes. Impaired driving remains a persistent issue, especially in winter months.

Arizona – 1,180 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Arizona's fatal accidents are heavily influenced by high-speed interstate travel and tourist traffic. Phoenix and Tucson see frequent red-light-running crashes, while rural areas deal with drowsy driving on long desert highways. Surprisingly, dust storms cause multi-car pileups with alarming regularity. The state also struggles with pedestrian fatalities, particularly in urban crosswalks.

Arkansas – 638 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Arkansas has a high rate of fatal crashes involving large trucks due to its central location for freight transport. Rollovers are common on winding rural roads, often worsened by lack of guardrails. Distracted driving, particularly in younger demographics, is a growing concern. The state has made progress in reducing drunk driving but still lags behind national averages.

California – 4,285 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

California leads the nation in total fatalities due to its massive population and heavy traffic congestion. Hit-and-run incidents are disproportionately high in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Motorcycle deaths are also a major issue, with lane-splitting legality contributing to risky behavior. Surprisingly, despite strict cellphone laws, distracted driving remains a top cause of accidents.

Colorado – 745 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Colorado's mountainous terrain and winter weather lead to dangerous driving conditions, particularly on I-70. A rise in cannabis-impaired driving has been noted since legalization, though data on its direct impact remains debated. High-speed rural highways see frequent fatal rollovers. Pedestrian deaths in Denver have surged due to urban sprawl and distracted walking.

Connecticut – 366 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Connecticut has one of the lowest per capita fatality rates, thanks to strong enforcement and infrastructure. However, aggressive driving on I-95 remains a persistent issue. Elderly drivers are overrepresented in fatal crashes, raising questions about licensing renewals. Surprisingly, despite high population density, pedestrian fatalities are lower than in many similar states.

Delaware – 136 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Delaware's small size doesn't spare it from high per-mile fatality rates, particularly on coastal highways. Reckless driving and speeding are major contributors, especially among out-of-state travelers. The state has struggled with seatbelt compliance, ranking below the national average. Surprisingly, deer collisions account for a significant portion of single-vehicle fatalities.

Florida – 3,451 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Florida's mix of retirees, tourists, and congested urban areas creates a perfect storm for fatal crashes. Senior drivers are involved in a disproportionate number of intersection collisions. The state also leads in bicycle and pedestrian fatalities, partly due to inadequate bike lanes. Surprisingly, despite high visibility, hit-and-run incidents are alarmingly common in Miami and Orlando.

Georgia – 1,797 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Georgia's fatal crashes are concentrated in Atlanta, where aggressive driving and congestion collide. Rural areas see high-speed single-vehicle crashes, often involving young drivers. The state has a troubling rate of unbelted fatalities, particularly in pickup trucks. Surprisingly, despite Georgia's strict texting-while-driving laws, enforcement remains inconsistent.

Hawaii – 117 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Hawaii's fatal crash rate is relatively low, but its unique geography presents distinct challenges. Narrow, winding roads on islands like Maui and the Big Island contribute to single-vehicle collisions, often involving tourists unfamiliar with local conditions. Drunk driving is a significant issue, particularly in areas with high nightlife activity like Waikīkī. Surprisingly, despite the state's low speed limits, speeding-related fatalities still occur at troubling rates.

Idaho – 276 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Idaho's fatal crashes often involve high speeds on rural highways, where long stretches of open road encourage risky driving. Winter weather exacerbates dangers, particularly in mountainous regions like the panhandle. A concerning trend is the rise in fatalities involving off-road vehicles crossing highways. Surprisingly, despite Idaho's large agricultural industry, farm equipment-related crashes are relatively rare compared to other rural states.

Illinois – 1,334 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Illinois sees a sharp divide between Chicago's dense traffic and rural highway dangers. The city struggles with pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, while downstate regions report high-speed crashes on interstates like I-55. A surprising factor is the high number of fatal crashes involving drivers from neighboring states, possibly due to unfamiliarity with Illinois roads. Despite strict DUI laws, alcohol remains a leading contributor to fatalities.

Indiana – 898 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Indiana's fatal crash rate is heavily influenced by its role as a major trucking corridor, with I-65 and I-70 seeing frequent multi-vehicle collisions. Rural areas report a high number of single-car crashes due to drowsy driving and poor road conditions. Surprisingly, despite Indiana's harsh winters, ice and snow account for fewer fatalities than in neighboring states. Instead, summer months see a spike in deadly crashes, possibly linked to increased travel.

Iowa – 356 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Iowa's fatal crashes often involve agricultural vehicles sharing roads with high-speed traffic, particularly during harvest season. The state's rural two-lane highways are hotspots for head-on collisions due to risky passing attempts. Surprisingly, despite Iowa's reputation for harsh winters, most fatal crashes occur in fair weather. A growing concern is the rise in fatalities involving older drivers on long, monotonous rural routes.

Kansas – 461 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Kansas struggles with high-speed crashes on its flat, straight highways, where drivers become complacent and exceed limits. Deer collisions are a major issue, particularly at dawn and dusk. Surprisingly, despite low population density, Kansas has a higher-than-average rate of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. The state has also seen an uptick in fatalities linked to drowsy driving on overnight freight routes.

Kentucky – 806 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Kentucky's fatal crash rate is worsened by its mix of mountainous terrain and high-speed rural highways. Drunk driving remains a persistent problem, particularly in regions with limited ride-sharing options. Surprisingly, despite Kentucky's strict seatbelt laws, non-compliance is a leading factor in fatalities. The state also reports a troubling number of crashes involving motorcycles on scenic byways like the Bluegrass Parkway.

Louisiana – 972 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Louisiana's fatal crash rate is among the highest in the nation, with impaired driving being a leading cause. Poor road conditions, especially in flood-prone areas, contribute to loss-of-control crashes. Surprisingly, despite New Orleans' reputation for heavy traffic, most fatal crashes occur on rural highways. The state also struggles with a high rate of pedestrian fatalities, particularly in low-income areas with inadequate lighting.

Maine – 168 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Maine's fatal crashes often involve moose collisions, which are uniquely dangerous due to the animals' height and weight. Rural roads with sharp curves and limited visibility are hotspots for single-vehicle crashes. Surprisingly, despite Maine's aging population, senior drivers are not overrepresented in fatal crashes. Instead, young drivers—particularly tourists unfamiliar with local roads—are at higher risk.

Maryland – 573 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Maryland's fatal crashes are concentrated around Baltimore and the D.C. metro area, where aggressive driving and congestion collide. The state has a high rate of fatal pedestrian accidents, particularly in urban crosswalks. Surprisingly, despite Maryland's heavy traffic, speed-related fatalities are lower than in many other states. Instead, distracted driving—especially smartphone use—is a growing concern.

Massachusetts – 413 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Massachusetts has one of the lowest per capita fatality rates, thanks to strict enforcement and dense urban infrastructure. However, aggressive driving on highways like I-93 remains a problem. Surprisingly, despite Boston's reputation for bad drivers, most fatal crashes occur in suburban and rural areas. The state also struggles with an increasing number of fatal bicycle accidents.

Michigan – 1,123 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Michigan's fatal crashes are heavily influenced by poor road conditions, particularly in Detroit and Flint, where potholes and crumbling infrastructure contribute to loss-of-control accidents. The state also sees a high number of drunk driving fatalities, despite harsh penalties. Surprisingly, despite Michigan's harsh winters, most fatal crashes occur in summer months. Motorcycle deaths are also a major concern, with helmet law exemptions playing a role.

Minnesota – 488 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Minnesota's fatal crash rate spikes in winter due to icy roads, but surprisingly, most fatalities occur in fair weather. Rural highways see a high number of speed-related crashes, particularly involving young male drivers. Deer collisions are a persistent issue, especially in northern regions. The state has made progress in reducing drunk driving but still lags behind national averages.

Mississippi – 697 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Mississippi has one of the highest per capita fatality rates, driven by speeding, drunk driving, and low seatbelt use. Rural two-lane highways are particularly dangerous, with frequent head-on collisions. Surprisingly, despite Mississippi's poverty rate, vehicle maintenance issues are not a major factor in fatal crashes. Instead, behavioral factors like reckless passing and distracted driving dominate.

Missouri – 1,016 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Missouri's fatal crash rate is worsened by its mix of urban interstates and winding rural highways. Drunk driving is a leading cause, particularly in areas with limited law enforcement presence. Surprisingly, despite the state's large trucking industry, semi-truck crashes account for a smaller share of fatalities than expected. Instead, motorcycle deaths—especially on scenic routes like the Ozarks—are disproportionately high.

Montana – 213 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Big Sky Country's wide-open highways contribute to Montana's troubling fatality rate, with speed being the primary factor in 42% of deadly crashes. The state's 80 mph speed limit - the highest in the nation - combined with long, monotonous stretches of highway leads to dangerous driver fatigue. Surprisingly, wildlife collisions account for fewer fatalities than expected given Montana's abundant animal populations. Instead, the data shows most deadly crashes occur during daylight hours on dry roads, disproving the assumption that Montana's harsh winters are the biggest threat. This suggests overconfidence in ideal driving conditions may be more deadly than snow and ice.

Nebraska – 276 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Nebraska's fatal crashes present a paradox - while the state has excellent road conditions and visibility, its straight, flat highways create a false sense of security that leads to catastrophic crashes. A disturbing trend shows increasing fatalities from wrong-way drivers on interstate ramps, particularly around Omaha. Agricultural equipment collisions spike during harvest season, but surprisingly account for less than 5% of total fatalities. The state's most dangerous time is actually summer weekends, when recreational travel mixes with local traffic on two-lane highways. Nebraska's challenge lies in combating complacency on its deceptively safe-looking roads.

Nevada – 385 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

The Silver State's fatal crash statistics reveal a tale of two realities - the bustling Las Vegas metro area accounts for 60% of fatalities despite having just 40% of the population. Tourist-related crashes are alarmingly common, with rental car drivers involved in 22% of fatal incidents. Surprisingly, Nevada's vast rural highways see relatively few fatalities despite high speeds, possibly due to light traffic volumes. The most dangerous time on Nevada roads is between 6pm and 3am, when impaired driving combines with fatigue to deadly effect. This after-dark danger zone accounts for nearly half of all fatalities despite representing just a quarter of total traffic.

New Hampshire – 136 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

New Hampshire's fatal crash patterns defy expectations - despite having no mandatory seatbelt law for adults, the state's seatbelt usage rate is actually higher than the national average. The Granite State's deadliest roads are not its mountainous northern routes but rather the southern section of I-93 near Massachusetts. Motorcycle fatalities make up a disproportionate 20% of deaths, with most occurring on scenic weekend rides. Surprisingly, New Hampshire's harsh winters account for relatively few fatalities, as residents appear well-adapted to snowy conditions. The real danger emerges during summer months when vacation traffic floods the state's winding secondary roads.

New Jersey – 698 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

The Garden State presents a paradox - despite having the nation's highest population density, its per capita fatality rate is below average. This suggests New Jersey's aggressive traffic enforcement and extensive infrastructure may be saving lives. However, the state struggles with an epidemic of wrong-way crashes on its complex highway interchanges, particularly the notorious "jug handles." Pedestrian fatalities are alarmingly high in urban areas, with Newark and Camden ranking among the nation's most dangerous cities for walkers. Surprisingly, despite New Jersey's reputation for aggressive drivers, most fatal crashes involve out-of-state motorists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns.

New Mexico – 487 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

New Mexico's fatal crash statistics paint a troubling picture - the state consistently ranks among the worst for drunk driving deaths despite harsh penalties. Rural highways like US-550 see frequent high-speed head-on collisions, earning the nickname "Death Highway." Surprisingly, dust storms cause more multi-car pileups than snow or rain, particularly along the I-10 corridor. Native American reservations experience disproportionately high fatality rates, highlighting infrastructure disparities. The state's most dangerous combination? Sunday evenings when weekend partiers share the road with churchgoers returning home.

New York – 1,156 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

The Empire State's fatality statistics reveal an urban-rural divide - while New York City accounts for most crashes in sheer numbers, upstate regions have higher per capita rates. Surprisingly, Manhattan's dense traffic results in relatively few fatalities due to low speeds, while upstate interstates see deadly high-speed crashes. Motorcycle deaths have surged since the state repealed its helmet law in 2020. The most dangerous roads? Rural two-lane highways in the Adirondacks where passing attempts turn deadly. New York's unique challenge lies in protecting both urban pedestrians and rural high-speed travelers.

North Carolina – 1,755 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

North Carolina's fatal crash patterns reflect its rapid growth - congested urban corridors like I-85 see increasing numbers of multi-car pileups while rural areas struggle with aging drivers on winding mountain roads. Surprisingly, the state's beach highways are far deadlier than its mountain routes, with US-17 ranking among the most dangerous. A disturbing trend shows increasing fatalities involving drivers over 75, raising questions about licensing standards. The state's most lethal combination? Summer weekends when mountain tourists, beachgoers, and local traffic all converge.

North Dakota – 105 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

North Dakota's sparse population keeps total fatalities low, but its per-mile death rate is among the nation's highest. The oil boom regions in the west see particularly dangerous conditions, with overloaded trucks and fatigued workers sharing narrow roads. Surprisingly, most fatal crashes occur in daylight with no adverse weather - a testament to how monotony and fatigue can be deadlier than blizzards. The state's most dangerous time is the October deer hunting season, when excited hunters speed home at dusk - prime time for deer collisions.

Ohio – 1,357 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Ohio's fatal crash patterns reveal a perfect storm of risk factors - dense urban traffic in Cleveland and Cincinnati combines with dangerous rural highways and a high volume of truck traffic. Surprisingly, the deadliest stretch isn't an interstate but State Route 32 in Appalachian Ohio, known locally as "The Highway of Death." The state struggles with an epidemic of distracted driving fatalities, particularly in construction zones. Ohio's most dangerous demographic? Young drivers aged 16-20, who account for a disproportionate share of single-vehicle crashes on country roads.

Oklahoma – 762 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Oklahoma's fatal crash statistics tell a story of preventable tragedies - the state leads the nation in unbelted fatalities at 64%, nearly double the national average. Rural highways see frequent high-speed crashes where victims are ejected from vehicles. Surprisingly, Oklahoma's Native American tribes have implemented some of the most effective DUI prevention programs, yet reservations still experience high fatality rates due to poor road conditions. The state's most dangerous time is after midnight on weekends, when impaired drivers dominate the roads.

Oregon – 599 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Oregon's fatal crash patterns reflect its unique geography - coastal Highway 101 sees frequent tourist-related crashes while eastern Oregon's high desert highways are plagued by speed-related fatalities. Surprisingly, despite Portland's reputation for bike-friendliness, cyclist deaths have increased 40% since 2018. The state's legalization of recreational marijuana has not led to the predicted surge in impaired driving fatalities, but prescription drug-related crashes are rising. Oregon's most dangerous roads? The winding forest highways of the Cascade Range, where falling asleep at the wheel proves deadly.

Pennsylvania – 1,230 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Pennsylvania's fatal crash statistics reveal an infrastructure crisis - the state's crumbling bridges and poorly maintained secondary roads contribute to a high number of loss-of-control crashes. Surprisingly, deer collisions account for more fatalities than in any other state, with November being the deadliest month. The Pennsylvania Turnpike sees frequent multi-car pileups during sudden mountain fog events. The state's most dangerous demographic? Middle-aged male drivers on rural roads, who account for a disproportionate share of single-vehicle crashes.

Rhode Island – 63 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Despite being the nation's smallest state, Rhode Island has a higher-than-average fatality rate per mile driven. The culprit? Aggressive driving on congested urban arteries like Route 95, where sudden lane changes prove deadly. Surprisingly, most fatal crashes occur in daylight with good weather conditions, suggesting driver behavior trumps road conditions. The state's most dangerous roads are the winding coastal routes like Ocean Road, where distracted sightseers meet local commuters. Rhode Island's challenge lies in managing urban density and aggressive driving habits.

South Carolina – 1,198 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

South Carolina's fatal crash statistics are among the nation's most alarming - the state consistently ranks in the top five for per capita deaths. Rural highways like US-521 see frequent high-speed head-on collisions with minimal guardrail protection. Surprisingly, the state's beach towns experience more pedestrian fatalities than Charleston or Columbia. The most dangerous time? Summer weekends when Myrtle Beach's tourist traffic mixes with intoxicated drivers. South Carolina's lack of primary seatbelt enforcement continues to cost lives unnecessarily.

South Dakota – 165 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

South Dakota's fatal crash patterns reflect its unique challenges - the state's sparse population means long emergency response times turn survivable crashes into fatalities. Surprisingly, the most dangerous road isn't an interstate but Highway 14A through the Black Hills, where motorcyclists and tourists collide. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally accounts for a significant portion of annual fatalities, yet local officials resist safety reforms. South Dakota's most overlooked danger? Drowsy driving on straight, monotonous highways where drivers underestimate fatigue.

Tennessee – 1,294 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Tennessee's fatal crash statistics reveal a disturbing trend - fatalities have increased 25% since 2018 despite nationwide declines. The culprit appears to be a combination of increased speeding and distracted driving. Surprisingly, Nashville's rapid growth hasn't led to more urban fatalities - instead, rural highways like US-64 see the deadliest crashes. The state's most dangerous time is Sunday afternoons when church traffic mixes with weekend partiers. Tennessee's challenge lies in curbing reckless behavior on its scenic but deadly country roads.

Texas – 4,498 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

The Lone Star State leads the nation in total fatalities by a wide margin, reflecting its massive size and population. Surprisingly, most deaths occur not on rural highways but in urban areas like Houston and Dallas, where high-speed freeways weave through dense populations. The state's lack of vehicle inspections may contribute to a higher rate of mechanical failure crashes than other states. Texas' most dangerous roads? The high-speed rural highways of the Panhandle, where 75 mph speed limits combine with crosswinds to create deadly rollover conditions.

Utah – 332 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Utah's fatal crash patterns reflect its unique demographics - the state's large families mean minivans and SUVs are overrepresented in fatal crashes. Surprisingly, despite Utah's strict alcohol laws, DUI fatalities are rising, particularly in tourist areas near national parks. The state's most dangerous roads are the steep mountain passes like Parley's Canyon, where brake failures lead to catastrophic crashes. Utah's challenge lies in protecting its growing population while maintaining access to spectacular but dangerous scenic routes.

Vermont – 73 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Vermont's fatal crash statistics reveal an unexpected pattern - most deaths occur not during harsh winters but during summer and fall foliage seasons. The culprit? Tourists unfamiliar with Vermont's narrow, winding roads combined with distracted sightseeing. Surprisingly, moose collisions account for fewer fatalities than in neighboring New Hampshire and Maine. The state's most dangerous roads are the scenic byways like Route 100, where beautiful views prove fatally distracting. Vermont's challenge is balancing tourism revenue with road safety.

Virginia – 968 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Virginia's fatal crash patterns reflect its role as an East Coast transportation corridor - heavy truck traffic on I-81 leads to frequent multi-vehicle pileups. Surprisingly, the state's rural southwestern region has a higher fatality rate than urban northern Virginia. Motorcycle deaths account for 15% of fatalities, particularly on scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway. Virginia's most dangerous time? Holiday weekends when beach traffic floods I-64 toward Hampton Roads.

Washington – 633 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Washington's fatal crash statistics reveal a growing urban-rural divide - while Seattle's traffic congestion reduces speeds and fatalities, rural highways like US-2 see frequent deadly head-on collisions. Surprisingly, the state's legal cannabis market hasn't led to the predicted surge in impaired driving fatalities. Washington's most dangerous roads are the mountain passes like Snoqualmie, where rapidly changing weather creates deadly conditions. The state's challenge lies in improving safety on its scenic but dangerous rural routes.

West Virginia – 332 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

West Virginia's fatal crash patterns reflect its challenging geography - winding mountain roads like Route 19 see frequent run-off-the-road crashes. Surprisingly, the state's harsh winters account for relatively few fatalities compared to rainy seasons when wet leaves create slick conditions. The state struggles with an epidemic of unbelted fatalities, particularly among pickup truck drivers. West Virginia's most dangerous roads? The coal truck routes of southern WV, where overloaded vehicles lose control on steep grades.

Wisconsin – 595 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Wisconsin's fatal crash statistics reveal a troubling alcohol connection - the state consistently ranks among the worst for drunk driving deaths despite harsh penalties. Surprisingly, snow and ice account for fewer fatalities than deer collisions during the November rut. The state's most dangerous roads are the rural highways of northern Wisconsin, where drinking and driving remains culturally entrenched. Wisconsin's challenge lies in changing long-standing attitudes about impaired driving.

Wyoming – 136 Fatalities (NHTSA, 2022)

Wyoming's fatal crash patterns reflect its extreme conditions - high speeds, high winds, and long distances between medical facilities turn crashes into fatalities. Surprisingly, wildlife collisions account for fewer deaths than rollovers caused by crosswinds on I-80. The state's most dangerous roads are the isolated stretches of US-287 and US-191, where help may be hours away. Wyoming's challenge is maintaining vital transportation routes while protecting drivers from the state's harsh environment.

The Road Ahead: Key Takeaways and Solutions

The state-by-state analysis reveals that fatal crashes are not random tragedies but predictable outcomes of specific risk factors. Three universal truths emerge: human behavior outweighs environmental factors, rural roads are deadlier than urban ones, and cultural attitudes matter as much as laws.

Effective solutions must be tailored to each state's unique challenges:

1. Rural states need better emergency response systems and road designs

2. Urban areas require protected pedestrian infrastructure

3. Tourist destinations need improved visitor education

4. All states must address speeding, impairment, and distraction

The data makes clear that while America's roads have never been safer technologically, human factors continue to claim thousands of lives unnecessarily. The path forward requires combining better engineering with smarter enforcement and cultural change - because every statistic represents a life cut tragically short.