Texas Ranks 2nd for Worst Drivers in the U.S., Study Finds

DALLAS — Texas has been ranked the second-worst state in the nation for drivers, according to a new study from King Stahlman Bail Bonds that evaluated traffic safety and driving behavior across all 50 states.

The analysis reviewed eight risk factors tied to dangerous driving, including DUI arrests, alcohol impairment in fatal crashes, speeding deaths, hit-and-run fatalities, and seatbelt use. New Mexico ranked worst overall, followed by Texas and Wyoming.

Where Texas Ranks Among the Worst States

The study found Texas stands out for alcohol-related fatalities, speeding, and fatal crashes. CW33 reported on the study after it ranked Texas second in the nation for worst drivers based on several road safety metrics. Texas recorded an alcohol-impaired fatality rate of 9.29 deaths per 100,000 licensed drivers, one of the highest figures in the country. The state also posted high rates for speeding-related crashes and hit-and-run deaths compared to most states.

With millions of drivers using Texas roadways daily, the findings highlight persistent safety challenges, particularly related to impaired driving and speed-related crashes.

How the Rankings Were Calculated

Researchers analyzed national transportation and safety data using eight major categories:

• Alcohol-impaired driving deaths
• Drivers involved in fatal crashes
• Speeding-related fatalities
• Hit-and-run deaths
• DUI arrest rates
• Overall traffic fatality rates
• Percentage of total crashes
• Seatbelt usage

Each state received a composite score based on these measures, which determined its final ranking.

The 10 States With the Worst Drivers

According to the report, the top 10 states with the poorest driving safety records are:

1. New Mexico
2. Texas
3. Wyoming
4. South Carolina
5. Louisiana
6. Arizona
7. Oklahoma
8. Montana
9. Mississippi
10. Oregon

New Mexico earned the worst overall ranking, reporting the highest rate of drivers involved in fatal crashes nationwide and leading the country in hit-and-run fatalities.

A Growing Safety Conversation in Texas

Traffic safety has remained a major concern across the state, particularly in high-density areas like North Texas. Law enforcement agencies continue to warn drivers about the risks associated with drunk driving, speeding, and distracted driving, which remain the leading contributors to serious roadway incidents.

Officials encourage Texans to avoid driving under the influence, use seatbelts consistently, limit distractions behind the wheel, and obey posted speed limits to reduce accidents and fatalities.

The study was conducted by King Stahlman Bail Bonds using publicly available national safety data and crash statistics from federal and state agencies.