With summer just around the corner, many Americans are eagerly mapping out their next great escape. For 63% of those planning to travel within the United States this year, the journey will be made solely by car.
As you prepare for your road trip, it’s essential to consider not just the destination but also the safety of the journey.
Car accidents were the leading cause of death in all 50 states as of 2019. So, buckle up as we unveil the 15 safest states for drivers, ensuring your road trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
1. Massachusetts: Bay State’s Safe Streets: A Coastal Cruise
With just 4.9 car crash fatalities per 100,000 people, Massachusetts takes the lead as the safest state for driving. Explore waterfront destinations like Cape Cod, Boston, and Nantucket, knowing that the roads here are among the safest in the nation.
The state’s commitment to road safety, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it an ideal destination for a worry-free road trip.
2. New York: Empire State’s Surprisingly Safe Roads
Surprisingly, New York’s streets are quite safe, with 5.2 car accident deaths per capita. Enjoy the iconic sights of Manhattan or venture upstate to historic destinations like Saratoga Springs and the Catskills.
Despite its bustling urban centers, New York’s commitment to road safety makes it a surprisingly secure place to drive, offering a diverse range of attractions for every traveler.
3. Rhode Island: Coastal Cruising with Peace of Mind
Known for its charming sandy shores and historic seaside towns, Rhode Island boasts a car crash fatality rate of 6.1 per 100,000 people.
This makes it a delightful and safe destination for coastal cruising. The state’s small size and well-maintained roads contribute to its safety, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty without undue worry.
4. New Jersey: Jersey Shore’s Safe and Sunny Escapes
The Jersey Shore is a beloved summer destination for many, and with a car crash fatality rate of 6.3 per capita, families can feel secure on their annual road trips.
From sandy beaches to lively boardwalks, New Jersey offers a classic summer experience with the added benefit of relatively safe roads, making it perfect for family vacations.
5. New Hampshire: Historic Hills, Safe Passage
Discover quaint New England towns and scenic Appalachian overlooks in New Hampshire, which sees only 7.5 car crash fatalities per capita.
The state’s historic hills offer safe passage and picturesque views. With its blend of natural beauty and well-maintained roads, New Hampshire provides a serene and secure driving experience.
6. Connecticut: Postcard-Perfect Drives with Less Worry
A road trip through Connecticut feels like driving through a postcard, with seaside towns and picturesque farms.
With 8.2 car crash fatalities per capita, you can enjoy its winding roads with less worry. The state’s idyllic landscapes and commitment to road safety make it an ideal destination for a relaxing and scenic drive.
7. Maryland: Chesapeake Charm and Safe Cruising
Find New England charm in Maryland, with its quaint waterfront towns, historic sites, and scenic coastlines. A fatality rate of 9.2 car crash fatalities per 100,000 people means drivers can feel relatively safe along the Chesapeake.
The combination of cultural attractions and scenic drives makes Maryland a delightful and secure destination for road trippers.
8. Washington, D.C.: Nation’s Capital, Safe Streets
While not a state, Washington, DC, sees enough traffic to warrant its inclusion. The district has a low 5.2 car accident fatalities per 100,000 people.
Despite its urban density, Washington, D.C., maintains a commitment to road safety, making it a secure place to explore the nation’s capital by car.
9. Hawaii: Paradise Found, Safe Roads Traversed
Cruising Hawaii’s scenic coastlines is a dream for many, and with a fatality rate of 5.9 deaths per capita, its roads are relatively safe. Be mindful of your speed and avoid distractions to fully enjoy the ocean views.
The state’s natural beauty and commitment to safe driving practices make it a top destination for a memorable road trip.
10. Minnesota: Land of 10,000 Lakes, Safe Outdoor Escapes
For outdoorsmen and women, a road trip to the land of 10,000 lakes is a dream. With just 6.9 car crash fatalities per capita, a road trip through Minnesota is both safe and spectacular.
The state’s vast wilderness and well-maintained roads offer a secure and scenic driving experience for nature lovers.
11. Washington: Emerald State’s Safe Forested Roads
Feel secure while driving through the forested roads of Washington, which has only 7.3 car crash fatalities per 100,000 people annually.
Explore Mount Rainier and Seattle’s Space Needle. Washington State’s dedication to road safety ensures a worry-free exploration of its diverse landscapes.
12. Utah: Wide-Open Spaces, Safe Driving Adventures
Thanks to its wide-open spaces and rugged terrain, Utah sees just 8.4 car crash fatalities per 100,000 people.
Plan a trek through Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park, or explore historic Park City. Utah’s vast landscapes and well-maintained roads provide a secure and awe-inspiring driving experience.
13. Pennsylvania: Keystone State’s Safe and Historic Byways
Sports fans and history buffs will enjoy a road trip through Pennsylvania, visiting sites like Gettysburg battlefield, Liberty Hall, and Heinz Field. Drivers can feel safe with just 8.7 car crash fatalities per capita.
Pennsylvania’s rich history and commitment to road safety create a secure and enriching travel experience.
14. Alaska: The Last Frontier, Safe Roads to Discover
While reaching Juneau might require air or sea travel, driving around Alaska offers rugged beauty and peace of mind, with 8.7 car crash fatalities per capita.
The state’s vast wilderness and unique driving conditions require careful attention, but the rewards are unparalleled in terms of scenery and adventure.
15. Illinois: Midwest’s Safe Roads and Cityscapes
Even with a major city like Chicago, Illinois sees just 9.3 car crash fatalities per capita. Explore Lake Michigan, Lincoln’s tomb in Springfield, or the Shawnee National Forest.
Illinois offers a blend of urban and natural attractions, all accessible via relatively safe roads, making it a great destination for diverse travelers.
Alicia Richards