States with Highest Drunk Driving Rates
According to The Zebra, the worst state for drunk driving in 2021 was Wyoming. The state ranked as the worst because it had the most fatalities per 100,000 people nationwide. North Dakota, which the insurance website ranked second, had the most DUIs (driving under the influence).
The 5 states that were deemed the worst for drunk driving were:
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- Montana
- Idaho
- Maine
Wyoming ranked worst for drunk driving because it had the most drunk driving deaths per 100k people despite having the smallest population. As noted by The Zebra, the state had 6.2 drunk driving fatalities per 100,000 people and 550 arrests for driving under the influence.
North Dakota, which ranked second to worst, actually had more DUI arrests than Wyoming. The state, however, had fewer drunk driving-related fatalities compared to the leading state.
Reducing Drunk Driving Rates
States across the country have been attempting to reduce the number of drunk drivers on their roads. To prevent drunk driving, some states have focused on rehabilitation in lieu of incarceration. Other states have implemented harsher punishments such as the required installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on a first offense. Still, others have started to target younger audiences with campaigns against drunk driving.
Tragically, thousands of people still die each year in DUI-related accidents. All of these deaths are avoidable. If you or someone you know has an underlying reliance or addiction to alcohol they may need help to stop drinking. There are options for treatment that can help save lives.