News articles and reports constantly toss out statistics regarding the dangers of Texas roads. But is everything you read reliable? Texas is such a large state. It seems natural that things like accident rates and fatality numbers would be higher, right?
How does Texas really compare to other states?
In terms of raw numbers, Texas experienced the most distracted driving deaths in 2017 and 2018 out of any state. But like any statistic, context matters.
An analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration reveals that Texas actually ranks ninth in the nation for distracted driving fatality rates when you account for the large population and vast area. Better than you expected? Let’s take a closer look.
In 2018, the distracted driving fatality rate was 1.37 deaths per billion miles driven. Keep in mind, however, that this only accounts for deaths that were reported to be caused by distracted driving. Many times, distracted driving goes unreported.”
If Texas isn’t at the top, which states rank the worst?
The five states with the worst distracted driving rates per billion miles traveled are:
- New Mexico – 4.8 deaths per billion miles
- Kansas – 3.1 deaths per billion miles
- Kentucky – 2.8 deaths per billion miles
- Louisiana – 2.7 deaths per billion miles
- Hawaii – 2.6 deaths per billion miles
What does this mean for Texas drivers?
While Texas may not be among the worst states for distracted driving when you put it in context, there is no question that distracted driving is still a problem. There were 758 total fatalities in distracted driving-related accidents in 2017 and 2018. Texas drivers must remain vigilant.
If you or someone you love has suffered an injury due to distracted driving, call Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner at (713) 222-7211 for a complimentary consultation.