Best and Worst States for Drivers: How Does Florida Rank?

In a perfect world, every road in the country would be safe as can be. However, we know that just isn't the case. When it comes to driving, some states are much better than others. Although there are bad drivers in every state, it turns out that some places are just much worse than others when it comes to people getting behind the wheel. So, in terms of driving, how does Florida rank?

What are some of the best states for drivers?

When it comes to the best drivers, there are a few states that deserve recognition. Vermont is known to be extremely safe. With its low population density and well-maintained roads, Vermont offers a serene and safe driving experience. Not only that, but Vermont has a strong commitment to road safety, investing in infrastructure improvements and driver education programs.

In the state of Iowa, you'll find some of the best driving conditions in the country. The road network is very well connected, and there is minimal traffic congestion - two factors that lead to some of the country's best driving conditions.

Maine is another state that boasts extremely safe traffic conditions with its very well-maintained roads. There is very little, if any heavy traffic at all, and Maine is known for courteous drivers along the roadways.

The worst states for drivers

Sadly, not all states are equal when it comes to the safety of driving. Texas ranks highest on the list for dangerous driving. There are a great number of fatal accidents in the Lone Star state with 1.35 accidents per 100,000 involving a tired driver and 1.53 fatal accidents per 100,000 licensed drivers involving someone who was driving the wrong way on a one-way street or on the wrong side of the road. In addition, Texas has the third highest number of drunk drivers involved in fatal accidents and the ninth highest number of fatal accidents involving a distracted driver.

Louisiana is another state that is considered dangerous for drivers. The state reports the third highest number of fatal car accidents involving a distracted driver and the eighth highest number of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes.

How does Florida rank in terms of driving?

Florida has a diverse driving environment, with bustling cities, scenic highways, and popular tourist destinations. However, it also faces some challenges. In 2022, there were 3,538 auto accident fatalities. There are three cities in Florida that rank in the top five for bad drivers - Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa. Fort Lauderdale and Broward County also saw 267 fatalities in 2022. In some studies, Florida is actually considered the worst state for driving overall, with high levels of traffic congestion. A large number of tourists who are unfamiliar with the roadways as well as a growing population contribute to the state's notoriously bad reputation for drivers. Another major factor is road infrastructure and maintenance. While Florida has made efforts to improve its road infrastructure, there are still areas that require attention. Some roads may have potholes or inadequate signage, which can affect the overall driving experience.

Although the state does face challenges when it comes to driving, the state has taken steps to improve road safety. By adhering to laws and being aware of the road conditions, Florida drivers can help make the state a better place for everyone on the road.