Top 10 States With the Worst Driving Behaviors: Is Yours on the List?

You might think a place like Hawaii, with its relaxing beaches and laid-back atmosphere, would have some of the best drivers. Plot twist: the Aloha State has earned the top spot for the worst driving behaviors in 2024. The other states ranking amongst the worst also may surprise you.

Across all states, the common behavior of drivers is increasingly becoming worse. Whether folks are changing lanes without signaling, cutting people off, texting and driving or rushing like they’re late for a luau, U.S. drivers are racking up violations left and right.

Dangerous Driving is On the Rise Nationwide

Hawaii isn’t the only state with driving problems. Across the U.S., dangerous driving behaviors are on the rise. Speeding, texting while driving, and running red lights have become increasingly more common.

Drivers everywhere are guilty of speeding. According to a recent Forbes survey, 39% of Americans admitted to speeding, and 14% confessed to driving 10-19 mph over the limit. The second worst habit was eating and driving, which 30% of drivers admitted to. Lastly, speeding up at a yellow light was the third worst habit.

The 10 Worst States for Driving in 2024

While Hawaii takes the lead, several other states have earned their own notorious reputations for bad driving. Here’s a look at the Top 10 Worst States for Driving in 2024:

1. Hawaii
2. Oregon
3. New Mexico
4. California
5. Alaska
6. South Carolina
7. Montana
8. Louisiana
9. Nevada
10. Arizona

Hawaii tops the list with its alarming rate of DUIs, distracted driving, and reckless habits. Oregon and New Mexico follow closely behind. Oregon may be known for its scenic views, but running red lights and refusing to yield are clogging up its roads. New Mexico drivers, meanwhile, seem to be racing through their wide-open spaces, with the state ranking high for both speeding and DUIs.

Speedsters, Snackers, and Road Rage

Despite the fact that 94% of drivers consider themselves “good drivers,” the reality is that many are guilty of at least one dangerous behavior. Honking, gesturing, and shouting at fellow motorists are common sights on American roads, with 10% of drivers admitting to road rage in the last month alone. While only 1% of respondents admitted to driving under the influence, it remains one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road.

Speeding seems to be the nation’s worst habit and states like California are trying to put a halt to that as well by alarming drivers if they speed over 10MPH. Drivers are speeding up to beat the yellow light, texting while driving, and engaging in other risky behaviors. And if you’re feeling confident about your driving skills, just know that nearly everyone else is too—but that doesn’t mean they’re good at it.

States With the Best Drivers

On the flip side, some states are doing things right when it comes to driving behaviors. Tennessee, Vermont, and New Hampshire consistently rank among the best for safe driving. These states boast lower rates of traffic violations, DUIs, and accidents. Drivers in these areas are more likely to obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and practice courteous road habits, making them some of the safest places to hit the road in 2024.

Stay safe on the road, PowerNation fans!