While Delaware is a great place to raise a family and build a livelihood, it is essential to acknowledge and address some pressing concerns. In recent years, Delaware has grappled with an alarming increase in traffic accidents, earning it the distinction of having some of the most perilous roads in the nation.
Raising awareness of these issues can help develop solutions and keep Delaware drivers safe.
National road safety
Across the nation, 20,175 fatalities caused by auto crashes occurred during the first half of 2022, the highest number for this period in nearly two decades. This surge in fatalities is part of a longer-term trend. Deaths on American roads have been rising since 2020. A significant contributing factor is the increased time Americans are spending on the road. U.S. drivers traveled billions of additional miles during the first half of 2022 when compared to the previous year.
Delaware’s dangerous roads
Among the regions grappling with this road safety crisis, Delaware has emerged as a state with an elevated traffic fatality rate in 2022. Despite low overall numbers, Delaware is the fifth worst state in the nation when adjusted for vehicle miles traveled. It is important to remember that Delaware is a geographically small state with a relatively limited population. There are 1.58 roadway deaths for every 100 million miles traveled, which is significantly higher than the national average of 1.27 fatalities.
What factors make Delaware roads so dangerous? Hazardous behaviors, including speeding and impaired driving, seem to be more common among motorists in Delaware. Older infrastructure and problems with road design in the state can also contribute to increased accident rates.
By taking steps to improve traffic safety, Delaware can continue to be a great place to live while also ensuring the well-being of all those who travel its roads.