States with the most summer driving fatalities

Summer is the deadliest time of year on America’s roads. And it’s getting worse. Our team of analysts reviewed the most recent data on fatal car crashes from the United State Department of Transportation. We found that the number of fatal crashes in June, July and August has increased 18% since 2018.

Key findings

• Rhode Island, Minnesota and New Jersey have seen the largest increase in summertime fatal crashes.
• Only six states have seen a decrease in fatal summertime crashes.
• Speeding-related fatal crashes have increased by 24% nationwide.
• Drivers can protect themselves on the road by reducing distractions, taking note of their emotions, having the proper coverage and adhering to the rules of the road.

From 2018 to 2021, the number of fatal crashes during the summer months increased by nearly 40% in some states. Rhode Island, Minnesota and New Jersey have seen the most significant increases in fatal crashes in June, July and August. Hawaii, New Hampshire and Alaska have seen the largest decreases in fatal summer crashes.

States with the most summertime driving fatalities

More fatal crashes happen in summer than any other time of year. In 2020 and 2021, more than 30% of all fatal crashes happened between June and August. We found that the percentage of fatal crashes in summertime is higher in colder, northern states and lower in warmer, southern ones. For example, 41% of all fatal crashes in Vermont happen in summer compared to 23% in Florida. 

There are multiple factors that can lead to a higher number of fatal crashes in the summer months, including an increase in traffic, a higher number of teen drivers out of school and on the road and more drunk driving incidents. Our research also revealed other trends, including a dramatic rise in speed-related fatalities, fatalities among drivers aged 25 to 44 and fatalities on urban roadways.

Read more: Best car insurance for teens

Still, every cash has its own unique circumstances, and a single crash could be the result of multiple environmental and behavioral factors. Statistical risk can also vary based on age and gender. 

How to reduce your risk on the road this summer

If you’re hitting the road this summer, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk, including comparing car insurance quotes to find a policy that fits your needs.

Obey the rules of the road

It’s not surprising that following the law can help you become a better driver. Avoiding drinking and driving, adhering to posted speed limits and ensuring everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt can reduce your risk of a wreck and serious injuries. It’s also wise to make sure your vehicle is road ready by keeping up on inspections and repairs.  

Reduce distractions

More than 3,500 people were killed due to distracted driving in 2021, according to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Texting, checking or sending emails, looking at social media or fiddling with in-car or smartphone features such as navigation or entertainment systems and apps can put you, your passengers and other drivers at risk.  

Avoiding those activities while driving can go a long way toward keeping yourself and others safe this summer. And, if you have teen drivers, it’s a good idea to talk to them about the importance of doing the same. 

Take note of your emotions

Technology isn’t the only thing that can distract us on the road. Emotions and stress can get the best of us on and off the road, and the 2023 Travelers Risk Index revealed that 76% of respondents admitted to feeling intense emotions or stress while driving. 

Those feelings are more than just unpleasant. They can lead to risky behaviors, including frequent and intense acceleration and braking, driving at high speeds and encroaching upon other lanes as you attempt to pass other cars. Taking note of your emotions and avoiding the road until you’re clear-headed and calm can help reduce emotional-based risks, especially on those summer vacations and road trips. 

Secure the proper type and amount of coverage

Sometimes accidents are unavoidable, even under the best circumstances. Properly insuring your vehicle can provide financial protection if you’re in an accident. That can help you and your loved ones worry less about financial stability if the accident results in injuries or death. Here are three types of coverages to consider.

Liability car insurance, which is required in nearly all states, will cover the costs of another driver’s (and their passengers') property damage and medical injuries if you’re at fault for an accident. It will also help pay for your legal costs and settlements if you’re sued.  

Liability insurance won’t cover your medical bills or property damage expenses if you cause an accident, but you can buy other coverage to help:

• Medical payments coverage (MedPay) and personal injury protection (PIP) can help pay for injuries you or your passengers sustain in an accident. MedPay is available in most states and required in Maine and New Hampshire, if you choose to buy car insurance. PIP is required in 15 states and optional in four states and Washington, D.C., but is unavailable in other states.
• Collision coverage pays for damages to your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault. 

The best car insurance policy for you is one that meets any state coverage requirements while also taking into account your financial situation. A licensed agent or insurance broker can help you choose a policy that meets state requirements and provides additional coverage where needed. 

Methodology

All data is sourced from the United States Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Data was compiled using the NHTSA’s Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) FARS (Fatal Accident Reporting System) system. Fatal crashes were compared from 2018 to 2021 by state, age, gender, roadway type and incident factors (speed).