A trucker in Phoenix distracted by TikTok and speeding caused a crash that killed five people last year, resulting in a 22-year prison sentence. This tragedy is just one of many in the US, where approximately 41,000 people died in traffic accidents last year, with leading causes being distracted driving, speeding, and substance use. Forbes Advisor ranked the 50 most populated US cities based on fatal crash rates per 100,000 residents, with Memphis, Detroit, and Albuquerque topping the list.
Texas had three cities in the top 15 for dangerous driving, with drunk driving, distracted driving, and speeding being common factors in fatal accidents. In Memphis, the rate of fatal accidents involving drunk driving was the highest. The top 20 most dangerous cities for drivers include places like Dallas, Houston, and Phoenix.
Despite a 3.6% decrease in traffic fatalities in 2023, the total number of motor vehicle fatalities has increased by 25% compared to the previous decade. More than 3,300 people died in crashes involving distracted driving in 2022, and the safety administration urges drivers to “put the phone away or pay” to prevent such tragedies. As Americans travel for Labor Day weekend, it’s important to be aware of the risks and dangers on the road to ensure safety for all drivers and passengers.
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