- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 43.51%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 450.50 (per 100,000 drivers)
Forbes Advisor ranked Montana as the worst state for drunk driving, thanks to having the highest percentage of traffic fatalities caused by drunk drivers at 43% and an astounding 450.50 DUI arrests per every 100,000 drivers. For every 100,000 drivers, there are 8.57 drunk drivers involved in a fatal crash.
Factors such as its vast rural landscapes, limited public transportation options, and a culture that sometimes glorifies heavy drinking contribute to the prevalence of this issue. Law enforcement agencies in Montana have been proactive in implementing sobriety checkpoints and increasing patrols to deter drunk driving, yet the state continues to face challenges in reducing these incidents.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 35.14%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 879.12
Like Montana, factors such as rural expanses, limited public transportation options, and cultural attitudes toward alcohol contribute to the prevalence of drunk driving. While the percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers is nearly 10% lower than in Montana, DUI arrests are higher than in all other 49 states.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 42.37%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 339.54
Texas has the second-highest percentage of traffic fatalities caused by drunk drivers out of all 50 states – a staggering 42.37%, with around 8.30 drunk drivers out of every 100,000 drivers. Despite stringent laws and widespread public awareness campaigns, the Lone Star State continues to grapple with the devastating consequences of intoxicated driving.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 34.55%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 629.12
With a moderately high percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers and a significant DUI arrest rate, Wyoming undoubtedly struggles with drinking responsibly, putting lives in danger in the process. For every 100,000 drivers, there are 8.22 drunk drivers involved in a fatal crash.
Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 32.67%
DUI Arrest Rate: 832.50
Coming in as the fifth worst state for drunk driving, North Dakota has the second-highest rate of DUI arrests in the country – nearly 833 for every 100,000 people. Like Wyoming, it has a moderately high percentage of traffic fatalities caused by drunk drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 35.89%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 393.76
Oregon faces the challenge of combating drunk driving as it grapples with the prevalence of intoxicated driving incidents within its borders. Oregon has a moderately high DUI arrest rate and a moderately high percentage of fatalities caused by drunk driving. However, reducing these incidents requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, prevention programs, and community engagement.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 32.02%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 278.59
New Mexico’s moderately high 32% of traffic deaths caused by DUIs and DUI arrest rate put it as the seventh worst state when it comes to drunk driving. Even more alarming, 7.81 drunk drivers out of every 100,000 drivers are involved in a fatal crash.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 33.47%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 257.93
South Carolina has a similar rate of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes as New Mexico, with 7.57 out of every 100,000 drivers. On top of that, around 33.47% of fatalities are caused by drunk drivers, proving once that again driving and alcohol are a bad combination.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 28.54%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 336.38
Missouri suffers from 28.54% of fatalities caused by drunk drivers, which, while not the highest we’ve seen, is still a significant number. Meanwhile, DUI arrests account for about 336 for every 100,000 drivers. For a population with just 1.08 million, that’s pretty high.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 25.20%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 333.63
Oklahoma is towards the bottom when it comes to the percentage of traffic fatalities caused by drunk drivers, but its 333.63 DUI arrest rate poses a huge enough concern to put the state as the 10th worst for drunk driving. About 6.03 drunk drivers out of every 100,000 drivers are involved in a fatal crash.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 31.37%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 519.65
Idaho faces a sobering reality with drunk driving, as statistics reveal a concerning trend within the state. With a moderate 31.37% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers, the impact of intoxicated driving reverberates across Idaho's roadways. Despite efforts to thwart this dangerous behavior, the DUI arrest rate stands at a whopping 519.65, underscoring the challenge law enforcement faces in combating drunk driving.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 26.75%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 362.11
In Tennessee, the alarming statistics surrounding drunk driving paint a concerning picture of road safety within the state. With 26.75% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers, the impact of intoxicated driving casts a shadow over Tennessee's highways. Further, a fairly high DUI arrest rate indicates a glaring problem for law enforcement.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 26.70%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 241.87
In the unlucky number 13 spot, Arkansas boasts a problematic 26.70% of fatalities caused by drunk driving, with a rate of 6.27 drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes. To add insult to injury, there are 241.87 DUI arrests for every 100,000 drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 29.41%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 456.98
Maine grapples with the persistent challenge of drunk driving, as reflected in its sobering statistics. Despite efforts to combat this perilous behavior, the DUI arrest rate stands at 456.98, underscoring the ongoing battle law enforcement faces in deterring drunk driving incidents.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 35.68%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 281.35
Arizona’s percentage of traffic fatalities caused by drunk drivers is pretty high and its DUI arrest rate is nothing to scoff at either. Factors such as urban sprawl, nightlife culture, and limited public transportation options have contributed to the state’s struggles.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 33.15%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 391.28
Iowa, with its picturesque landscapes and tight-knit communities, grapples with the scourge of drunk driving, as evidenced by its 33.15% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers and a relatively high 391.28 DUI rate.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 20.08%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 289.45
With 20.08% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 289.45, Mississippi seems to boast a relatively better situation compared to many other states. However, with 7.16 drunk drivers out of every 100,000, involved in fatal crashes, the prevalence of drunk driving is clear.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 30.76%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 116.05
Arrests in Louisiana may be lower compared to the rest of the country, but they still suffer from a relatively high percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers. To make matters worse, about 6 out of every 100,000 drivers are drunk drivers involved in a fatal crash.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 28.59%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 130.53
Alabama experiences a moderate rate of traffic deaths caused by drunk drivers, with nearly 6 out of every 100,000 being involved in a fatal crash. However, DUI arrests are somewhat low, showing that law enforcement has much work to do in preventing these incidents.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 37.58%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 250.22
Connecticut comes in as the 20th worst state for drunk driving, with an outrageous 37.58% of driving fatalities being caused by drunk drivers. Meanwhile, DUI arrests are somewhat low, at a rate of 250.22, but that just means little is being done to prevent this reckless behavior.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 31.26%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 397.24
Colorado leaves much to be desired with both its percentage of fatalities caused by drinking and getting behind the wheel. And with nearly, 400 arrests for every DUI, authorities seem to be working to prevent fatalities, but prevention is ultimately the most effective measure.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 30.13%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 502.90
It’s really no surprise to see the home of Sin City here, but at least the state is doing something to prevent accidents. Nevada’s moderate 30.13% shows the prevalence of drunk driving fatalities and its 502.90 DUI arrest rate shows the work being done by authorities.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 23.57%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 442.21
Kentucky boasts one of the lowest percentages of drunk driving fatalities in the country, but that doesn’t mean its driving is getting out of trouble. The state has a DUI arrest rate of around 442 for every 100,000 drivers, which is pretty bad.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 39.22%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 139.10
Ohio displays among the worst percentages of fatalities caused by DUIs in the country at over 39%. It’s arrest rate, however, teeters on the low side, showing that not much is being done about people drinking and getting behind the wheel.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 32.84%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 553.76
Alaska doesn’t have the very worst percentage of DUI-related fatalities, but its arrest record definitely raises alarms. If Alaska wants to get out of the top 25 worst DUI states, it might want to make more of an effort to educate its drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 32.10%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 486.64
Wisconsin just narrowly misses the top 25 worst states for drunk driving, making it as the 25th best for having fewer drunk drivers.
Nevertheless, it’s important to denote that Wisconsin’s percentage of fatalities caused by drinking and driving is still highly problematic and its significant DUI arrests paint an alarming picture. There’s still much room for improvement when it comes to drinking responsibly.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 39.10%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 408.87
Washington suffers from a staggering 39.10% of traffic fatalities being caused by drunk drivers. It even has a significant number of arrests. However, due to its lower rate of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes, for every 100,000 people, behind the wheel – it manages to narrowly miss the very worst states.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 29.41%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 313.18
Nebraska showcases relatively lower rates of fatalities caused by intoxicated drivers and a moderate DUI arrest rate. With 29.41% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 313.18, Nebraska demonstrates a comparatively better situation compared to many other states.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 23.21%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 217.29
West Virginia faces the challenge of drunk driving, with a notable percentage of fatalities caused by intoxicated drivers and a relatively lower DUI arrest rate. While West Virginia demonstrates a lower DUI arrest rate compared to some states, continued efforts in education, prevention, and enforcement are imperative to reduce the incidence of drunk driving further and ensure the safety of its roadways.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 31.97%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 344.75
With a somewhat high percentage of fatalities caused by drunk driving, we’d be hard-pressed to say that California was drinking responsibly. But at least, of those driving drunk, they happen to be avoiding fatal accidents. The state only has 4 out of every 100,000 drunk drivers involved in a fatal accident.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 28.02%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 201.48
North Carolina’s 28.02% isn’t the worst percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers but its arrest record is on the low side, suggesting it may become a larger issue in the future if law enforcement and public outreach programs can’t do more to stop it.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 38.14%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 361.77
As one of the worst states for buckling up, it’s no surprise that New Hampshire is not entirely responsible when it comes to drinking and driving. Somehow they managed to make the top 25 best states because of their lower rate of fatalities involving drunk drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 38.10%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 327.15
Rhode Island is the smallest state but still has a higher population than others, which makes the 38.10% of fatalities caused by drunk drivers still problematic. While it fares better than most other states, its evident there is still much work to be done on Rhode Island’s behalf.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 27.26%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 93.95
Florida, coming in as the 17th best when it comes to drinking and driving, manages to be the first state with fairly impressive numbers. With less than 100 DUI arrests and only a moderate rate of fatalities caused by DUIs, Florida shows some level of responsibility – at least when it comes to drinking.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 28.88%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 310.26
With 28.88% of fatalities caused by drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 310.26, the state navigates the complex landscape of road safety and alcohol-related incidents. Factors contributing to this issue may include urban sprawl, cultural attitudes towards alcohol, and enforcement strategies.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 29.79%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 324.15
Hawaii emerges as a state showcasing comparatively lower rates of fatalities caused by drunk drivers alongside a notable DUI arrest rate, painting a positive picture in the fight against intoxicated driving. Hawaii's favorable statistics suggest that the state has made significant strides in combating drunk driving and promoting road safety.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 25.11%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 233.42
Indiana emerges as one of the states demonstrating commendable progress in combating drunk driving, boasting a lower percentage of fatalities caused by intoxicated drivers alongside a notable DUI arrest rate. With 25.11% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 233.42, Indiana showcases a proactive approach to tackling this critical public safety issue.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 25.71%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 285.70
Through collaborative initiatives and ongoing dedication, Kansas sets a commendable example as a state making significant strides in reducing the incidence of drunk driving and creating safer roadways for all. With a low 25.71% of fatalities attributed to drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 285.70, the state sets a shining example for its bordering neighbors.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 34.76%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 317.70
Maryland faces the significant challenge of drunk driving, with a somewhat higher percentage of fatalities attributed to intoxicated drivers alongside a notable DUI arrest rate. However, other factors such as its low 3.67 rate of drunk drivers involved in actual fatal crashes make the state relatively safe for other drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 21.76%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 260.82
While its low arrest numbers are impressive in and of itself when you consider the entire population, most impressive is Georgia’s percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers. It has the single lowest percentage compared to all 50 states, which is why Georgia ranks as the 11th best for DUIs.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 34.56%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 69.83
Illinois has the second-lowest number of DUI arrests per every 100,000 drivers, but a percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers that keeps it from ranking any higher on the list. But as it stands, it just makes the top 10 spot for states doing their best to avoid drunk driving.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 31.08%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 460.50
Vermont’s statistics are not the most impressive when it comes to fatalities caused by drunk drivers nor when it comes to the number of arrests. Regardless, it has one of the lowest rates of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes - 3.36.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 28.61%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 287.28
Michigan confronts drunk driving challenges with a unique blend of proactive measures and cultural initiatives. Despite a percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers standing at 28.61%, and a DUI arrest rate of 287.28, the state adopts a multifaceted approach to address this pressing issue.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 27.40%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 350.84
With 27.40% of fatalities caused by drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 350.84, the state navigates the delicate balance of promoting road safety while addressing the issue of drunk driving.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 26.64%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 466.68
With 26.64% of fatalities caused by drunk drivers and a DUI arrest rate of 466.68, the state navigates the complex intersection of road safety and alcohol-related incidents. Even with its diverse landscapes, ranging from bustling urban centers to serene rural areas, Minnesota manages to effectively address DUIs as a critical public safety concern.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 33.54%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 163.97
New York has a lower DUI arrest rate compared to most and a low rate of drunk drivers involved in fatal accidents - less than three for every 100,000 drivers. That being said, it just manages to make the top 5 among the best states for DUIs.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 35.97%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 160.79
Massachusetts boasts comparable numbers to New York and even fewer drunk drivers involved in fatal incidents. Nevertheless, its 35.97% percent of fatalities caused by drunk drivers poses plenty of problems for sober drivers.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 24.09%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 334.75
Utah ranks higher among the best states for DUI thanks to its lower percentage of drivers causing car crashes. Its DUI rate also remains somewhat low, even if it's not the best there is.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 25.00%
- DUI Arrest Rate: 42.57
Delaware pulls in some impressive statistics all around, which is why it makes it as the second-best state in the country for drinking and driving. It has the single lowest rate of DUI arrests in the entire country, which is the most impressive of all.
- Percentage of Fatalities Caused by Drunk Drivers: 25.46%
- DUI Arrest Rate (per 100,000 drivers): 245.66
Interestingly, New Jersey ranks as the best when it comes to drinking responsibly. According to statistics gathered from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, New Jersey had a lower percentage of fatalities caused by drunk drivers, a low rate of drunk drivers involved in fatal accidents, and a relatively low number of arrests.
While New Jersey could always improve or falter, for now, Forbes Advisor ranks it at the bottom of their “Worst States for Drunk Driving In 2024” list, making Jersey the best when it comes to drinking responsibly.
