Labor Day weekend is one of the most hazardous times to be on the road in the United States, ranking as the second deadliest holiday for drivers, behind only Independence Day. In 2023, 511 people were killed in crashes, an increase from 496 the year prior, with 36% of those accidents involving drunk drivers.
As Floridians and visitors head out for vacations, cookouts, and celebrations, safety experts are urging caution. The combination of crowded highways and increased alcohol consumption makes for a particularly risky travel environment.
A new analysis from Munley Law highlights where each state stands when it comes to roadway safety. The firm’s study on the Safest and Most Dangerous States to Drive this Labor Day draws on the most recent data from the NHTSA, FBI, and Census Bureau, ranking all 50 states and the District of Columbia across seven categories, including traffic fatalities, DUI arrests, speeding-related crashes, and pedestrian deaths.
Florida’s Key Findings:
- Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities per 100,000 Residents (2024): 13.64 (#35)
- DUI Arrests per 100,000 Residents (2024): 87.49 (#5)
- Fatal Crashes with BAC .08+ g/dL per 100,000 Residents (2023): 3.27 (#26)
- Fatal Crashes Involving Speeding per 100,000 Residents (2023): 1.31 (#1 – highest in the nation)
- Pedestrians Killed in Vehicle Accidents per 100,000 Residents (2023): 3.3 (#48)
- Motor Carrier Traffic Violations per 100,000 Residents (2024): 120.21 (#8)
- Uninsured Motorists (2023): 20.6% (#45)
The study also identified U.S. Highway 1 as the most dangerous roadway in Florida, with 131 fatal crashes in 2023 alone.
Despite Florida’s mid-tier ranking as the 26th safest state, the findings point to areas of concern, especially regarding speeding and uninsured drivers.
For a deeper look at how each state compares, you can view the complete rankings and methodology at Munley Law.
