The Most Dangerous States for Older Drivers, Ranked from Best to Worst
Getting older is a part of life, and whether we accept it or not, our age can play a significant role in our ability to drive. As our eyesight and alertness diminish out on the road, it can be more difficult to stay out of danger, sometimes through no fault of our own.
When it comes to driving, whether on the streets or the highway, sometimes avoiding accidents is near impossible for older drivers trying to navigate this busy, and fast-paced world we live in. Some states, however, are worse than others when it comes to the safety of older drivers.
Here, we’ll be ranking every state from the least dangerous to the most dangerous states for older drivers. Taking data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2021, we’ve ranked every state by the involvement of older drivers, age 65 and older, in fatal crashes. Additionally, we have provided the number of fatalities among older drivers to give you an idea as to just how dangerous these roads can be.
With that said, let’s take a look at the most dangerous states for older drivers, ranked from best to worst!
Vermont
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 14
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 10.51
At 16.70%, Vermont grapples with heightened road dangers, urging careful navigation amidst picturesque landscapes and prioritizing safety measures for all drivers.
Vermont exhibits a moderate rate of 13.47 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting average road safety performance.
Pennsylvania
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 279
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 11.32
Pennsylvania, at 17.00%, faces increased road risks. It shows a lack of caution by other drivers on the road, posing a threat to senior drivers.
Pennsylvania maintains a moderate rate of 13.62 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers.
New Mexico
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 60
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 15.31
New Mexico, with 11.10% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, navigates its scenic beauty with seasoned care.
New Mexico reports a high rate of 20.65 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Connecticut
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 42
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 6.47
With 11.10% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Connecticut highlights cautious driving in its historic charm.
Connecticut maintains a low rate of 8.35 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, showcasing successful road safety efforts.
Virginia
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 214
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 15.21
With 17.00%, Virginia confronts elevated road hazards, urging cautious navigation amidst its colonial charm and prioritizing safety measures for all residents.
Virginia demonstrates a concerning rate of 18.31 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures.
Kansas
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 94
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 14.33
Kansas’ 17.50% highlights heightened road dangers, prompting responsible driving amidst heartland landscapes and prioritizing safety initiatives for all drivers.
Kansas reports a high rate of 21.81 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating severe road safety challenges.
Nebraska
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 45
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 13.98
At 17.90%, Nebraska navigates increased road hazards, calling for more prudent driving through its Great Plains.
Nebraska exhibits a moderate rate of 17.62 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting well below average road safety performance.
Iowa
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 81
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 19.20
Iowa’s 18.20% signals elevated road risks, urging responsible navigation amidst agricultural heritage and prioritizing safety measures for all residents.
Iowa maintains a moderately high rate of 17.49 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting a severe lack of road safety performance.
Alaska
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 13
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 13.31
With 18.70%, Alaska grapples with heightened road dangers, urging cautious navigation amidst its rugged landscapes and prioritizing safety initiatives for all drivers.
Alaska demonstrates a concerning rate of 18.07 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures.
Minnesota
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 116
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 12.14
At 18.70%, Minnesota faces increased road hazards, emphasizing the need for prudent driving amid its lakeside charm.
Minnesota reports a moderately high rate of 15.16 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting below average road safety performance for seniors.
Delaware
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 31
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 15.37
Delaware’s 19.00% highlights elevated road dangers, prompting responsible navigation amidst coastal beauty and prioritizing safety initiatives for all residents.
Delaware maintains a concerning rate of 18.57 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures.
West Virginia
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 74
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 20.03
With 21.30%, West Virginia confronts heightened road hazards, urging cautious driving amidst its mountainous terrain and prioritizing safety measures for all drivers.
West Virginia exhibits a very high rate of 24.61 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting critical road safety issues.
Maine
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 41
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 13.80
Maine had the highest percentage of older drivers involved in fatal crashes – an astounding 23.10%. While only 41 were fatally wounded in 2021, among a population of 1.4 million, that’s a hefty number.
And it’s also worth noting, these numbers don’t denote the number of fatalities caused by older drivers. Maine demonstrates a significant rate of 17.5 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting some poor road safety performance.
Louisiana
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 127
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.67
At 10.30%, Louisiana’s roads see the wisdom of its older drivers, navigating vibrant cultures with care.
Louisiana exhibits a concerning involvement rate of 17.5 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety initiatives.
Texas
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 656
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.92
Texas, with a 10.20% involvement of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, strives for road safety along its vast highways.
Texas reports a relatively high rate of 19.58 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, signaling challenges in road safety management.
Maryland
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 75
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 7.48
With a 9.40% rate of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Maryland emphasizes safe driving practices in its bustling urban hubs.
Maryland’s commendably low involvement rate of 8.69 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers is indicative of effective safety measures.
California
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 604
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality (per 100,000 residents): 10.14
California boasts a 9.40% involvement of drivers aged 65+ in fatal crashes, reflecting careful road navigation amidst diverse landscapes.
California maintains a moderate involvement rate of 12.13 fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers, reflecting a balanced approach to road safety. While 604 fatalities in 2021 might seem on the higher end, it’s important to note that the state has more licensed drivers than any other state.
Oregon
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 127
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.11
Oregon’s 16.40% signals elevated road hazards, prompting cautious driving amidst natural wonders and prioritizing safety measures for all residents.
Oregon reports a high rate of 17.54 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Wisconsin
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 118
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 11.16
At 16.20% fatality involvement among senior drivers, Wisconsin confronts increased road dangers, urging responsible navigation amidst dairyland charm and prioritizing safety initiatives for all motorists.
Wisconsin showcases a moderate rate of 14.21 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting average road safety performance.
New Hampshire
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 25
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 9.35
With 16.20%, New Hampshire faces heightened road risks, emphasizing prudent driving amidst scenic beauty and prioritizing safety measures for all residents.
Nevertheless, New Hampshire maintains a commendably low rate of 7.53 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting some effective safety measures.
Oklahoma
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 127
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 23.11
Oklahoma, at 16.10%, navigates increased road hazards, urging cautious navigation amidst plains landscapes and prioritizing safety initiatives for all drivers.
Oklahoma demonstrates an alarmingly high rate of 29.62 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating urgent road safety needs.
Kentucky
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 150
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 19.47
With 15.60%, Kentucky grapples with elevated road dangers, urging responsible driving amidst Bluegrass State allure and prioritizing safety measures for all residents.
Kentucky exhibits a very high rate of 26.65 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting critical road safety issues.
Alabama
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 151
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.99
At 11.50%, Alabama values its mature drivers, ensuring road safety while emphasizing the epitome of Southern hospitality.
Alabama demonstrates a moderate rate of 16.21 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting room for improvement in safety measures.
North Carolina
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 293
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.34
North Carolina’s 15.50% signals heightened road risks, emphasizing prudent driving amidst southern hospitality and prioritizing safety initiatives for all motorists.
North Carolina maintains a high rate of 21.4 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Idaho
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 46
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 14.58
Idaho, with 11.80% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, balances its rugged terrain with careful driving.
Idaho showcases a moderate rate of 14.91 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting average road safety performance.
North Dakota
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 20
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.05
At 15.20%, North Dakota confronts increased road dangers, urging heightened vigilance amidst expansive landscapes and prioritizing safety measures for drivers.
North Dakota reports a concerning rate of 18.68 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures.
Arizona
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 187
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 14.03
Arizona’s 12.00% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes showcases responsible driving amidst desert horizons.
Arizona reports a moderate rate of 16.47 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating a need for targeted safety interventions.
Colorado
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 108
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 12.28
With 12.00% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Colorado embraces safe travels through its mountainous terrain.
Colorado maintains a moderate rate of 13.48 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting relatively effective safety measures.
Illinois
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 233
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 11.09
Illinois, with 12.20% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, navigates urban bustle with seasoned wisdom.
Illinois demonstrates a moderate rate of 14.02 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting average road safety performance.
Rhode Island
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 12
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 6.04
Rhode Island’s 15.10% highlights elevated road hazards, prompting cautious driving amidst coastal charm and prioritizing safety initiatives for all residents.
Rhode Island demonstrates a low rate of 8.23 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting successful safety initiatives.
South Carolina
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 182
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 18.83
At 12.50%, South Carolina offers a safer experience for its older drivers amidst its coastal beauty.
South Carolina reports a higher rate of 23.89 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating some significant road safety challenges.
Washington
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 115
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 9.16
Washington’s 12.90% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes underscores careful navigation through scenic landscapes.
Washington maintains a low rate of 10.06 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting successful safety initiatives.
Georgia
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 299
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 18.88
Georgia, with 13.00% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, blends southern charm with safe road practices.
Georgia demonstrates a high rate of 22.66 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, signaling challenges in road safety management.
Tennessee
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 299
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 18.48
At 13.30%, Tennessee values the careful driving of its older population amidst its musical heritage.
Tennessee reports a high rate of 23.54 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting significant road safety issues.
Wyoming
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 219
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 19.25
With 13.40% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Wyoming’s roads experience generally safe navigation through its rugged beauty.
Wyoming exhibits a concerning rate of 18.81 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures.
Indiana
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 152
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 13.64
Indiana’s 13.60% involvement of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes showcases skilled road conduct among its proud Hoosiers.
Indiana maintains a high rate of 18.96 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Mississippi
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 120
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 24.28
With just 13.60% senior crash involvement, Mississippi values the seasoned driving of its older population, demonstrating its southern hospitality on the roadways.
Mississippi demonstrates a very high rate of 28.4 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting critical road safety issues.
New York
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 293
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 6.73
New York, with 13.60% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, prioritizes safety in its bustling metropolis.
New York maintains a low rate of 8.09 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting successful safety initiatives.
Michigan
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 201
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 11.03
With 13.80% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Michigan navigates its scenic byways with care.
Michigan reports a moderate rate of 12.84 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting average road safety performance.
New Jersey
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 158
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 10.09
New Jersey, at 13.80%, emphasizes road safety amidst its dynamic urban landscape.
New Jersey showcases a low rate of 9.53 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting successful safety initiatives.
Missouri
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 185
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 17.07
Missouri’s 13.90% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes reflects cautious road navigation amidst Show-Me State pride.
Missouri reports a high rate of 20.67 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Arkansas
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 127
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 24.05
With 14.00% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes, Arkansas showcases careful driving amid its natural beauty.
Arkansas exhibits a high rate of 23.72 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting significant road safety issues.
South Dakota
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 25
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 15.98
South Dakota’s 14.00% of 65+ drivers in fatal crashes underscores road safety in its serene landscapes.
South Dakota demonstrates a moderate rate of 15.62 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting average road safety performance.
Florida
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 698
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 15.18
Florida, at 14.10%, cherishes the wisdom of its older drivers amidst its sunny allure.
Florida reports a high involvement rate of 19.39 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Massachusetts
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 91
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 7.49
At 14.10%, Massachusetts faces heightened road risks, urging cautious navigation amidst historic charm and prioritizing road safety for all residents.
Massachusetts maintains a commendably low rate of 7.94 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting effective safety measures.
Nevada
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 75
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 14.47
With 14.10%, Nevada confronts increased road hazards, emphasizing prudent driving amidst desert landscapes and prioritizing road safety measures.
Nevada demonstrates a concerning rate of 18.36 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety initiatives.
Hawaii
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 22
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 7.79
Hawaii, at 14.20%, grapples with elevated road dangers, urging careful navigation amidst island allure and prioritizing safety initiatives for all drivers.
Hawaii maintains a low rate of 8.49 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, reflecting successful safety initiatives.
Montana
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 40
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 18.48
With 15.00% fatal crash involvement, Montana faces heightened road dangers, urging responsible navigation amidst rugged terrain and prioritizing safety measures for all drivers.
Montana exhibits a high rate of 19.91 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting significant road safety issues.
Utah
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 66
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 16.96
At 14.80%, Utah navigates increased road hazards, emphasizing prudent driving amidst scenic beauty and prioritizing safety initiatives for all motorists.
Utah showcases a high rate of 19.55 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, indicating significant road safety challenges.
Ohio
- Total Fatalities, Age 65 and Older: 270
- Age 65+ Rate of Fatality: 12.86
Ohio’s 14.50% signals heightened road risks, prompting cautious driving amidst heartland charm and prioritizing safety measures to protect drivers.
Ohio reports a moderate rate of 15.04 fatalities per 100,000 licensed older drivers, suggesting average road safety performance.
