The 10 Riskiest (and 10 Safest) States for New Drivers

A recent study conducted by law firm Bader Scott analyzing crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration between 2017 and 2021 revealed the most dangerous U.S. states for learner’s permit holders. The study defines “learner driver” as those holding a learner’s permit. Kentucky leads the nation in traffic deaths involving learner’s permit holders, accounting for 2.21% of total fatal crashes. Despite this high percentage, the actual number of new driver fatalities was 119, out of a total of 5,392 fatal crashes during the five-year period.

Texas had the most fatal crashes overall, with a total of 27,392, and 328 of those involved learner’s permit holding drivers, accounting for 1.20%. While some states reported single-digit fatalities, the fact that there were any fatalities at all among learner drivers is concerning, given that they are typically accompanied by an experienced driver and are likely driving slowly and cautiously.

On the brighter side, the study also identified the safest states for learner drivers. West Virginia reported zero fatal crashes involving a learner’s permit holder, making it the safest state. South Carolina and Louisiana followed, each with one fatality. Despite its high population and car-centric culture, California was fourth safest with nine new driver fatalities.

While the data could be alarming, it should be noted that overall traffic fatalities are down nationwide as of the first half of 2023 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s most recent data. Though individual states might have seen a slight increase, the overall trend reflects progress in road safety.