New Study: Texas Among the Worst States for Drowsy, Distracted, and Speeding Drivers

AUSTIN, TX — Texas is one of the most dangerous states for drivers, with alarming rates of drowsy, distracted, and speeding-related fatal crashes, according to a recent study by High Rise Financial.

The study, which analyzed data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from 2018 to 2022, placed Texas high on the list for various dangerous driving behaviors across gender lines.

Key Insights from Texas:

• Drowsy Driving: Texas reported 618 male drivers and 113 female drivers involved in fatal crashes due to drowsy driving, accounting for 3% and 1.7% of such crashes, respectively. This places Texas among the top states where drowsy driving is a significant factor in fatal accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Texas had 1,308 male drivers (6.3%) and 505 female drivers (7.6%) involved in fatal crashes due to distracted driving. This makes Texas one of the states with the highest incidence of distracted driving crashes, particularly among female drivers.
• Speeding: The state also recorded a high number of fatal crashes involving speeding, with 4,903 male drivers (23.4%) and 1,053 female drivers (15.7%) involved in such incidents. Texas ranks among the states with the most speeding-related fatal crashes.
• Under the Influence: Texas also saw a considerable number of crashes involving drivers under the influence, with 3,074 male drivers (14.7%) and 672 female drivers (10%) involved in such accidents.

The study ranked states based on the percentage of crashes involving these five factors—drowsy driving, distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and emotional driving (e.g., anger or depression). Wyoming, Maine, Montana, and Michigan also ranked high in specific categories, but Texas stands out due to its high numbers across multiple categories.

Some of the largest states by area, like Alaska, Texas, and Montana, are among the worst states for drowsy drivers. With greater distances required to drive state-wide in some parts of the country, drivers are reminded to stop immediately at the next rest stop or a safe, well-lit area if they begin to feel tired. Even taking a 20-minute nap can help, allowing you to enjoy some rest and be more alert on the road afterward.

Nationally, the study found that women are more likely to be involved in distracted driving crashes, while men are more frequently involved in crashes related to speeding, drowsy driving, and driving under the influence.

For more detailed information and a full breakdown of the data, visit High Rise Financial.

A full table is available here.