Why Some States See More Fatal Truck Accidents Than Others

Commercial truck accidents continue to be one of the leading causes of deaths and injuries in the United States. According to Consumer Shield data, approximately 143,000 truck accidents were recorded in 2020. In 2021, that number increased to 166,000. By 2024, roughly 152,000 accidents were reported, while nearly 145,000 were recorded in 2025.

Although the figures show a downward trend in recent years, the problem remains significant. As of April 2026, 33,300 truck accidents had already been recorded, and the number continues to rise.

Studies indicate that truck accidents account for approximately 6% of all fatal crashes, despite the fact that heavy trucks represent about 10% of total vehicle miles traveled (VMT). However, due to their size and weight, these accidents often result in some of the most severe injuries and can have devastating consequences.

States With the Highest Risk of Traffic Accidents

An analysis based on data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) identifies the areas with the highest risk and the key factors contributing to fatal accidents.

The data comes from the FMCSA’s most recent analysis of large truck and bus crashes, as the agency’s annual study has not yet resumed. According to the report, the most dangerous states for commercial trucking operations are:

• Texas
• Florida
• California
• Georgia
• North Carolina

When analyzing fatality rates relative to freight transportation activity, however, the most dangerous states are:

• Montana
• Wyoming
• Mississippi
• South Carolina
• Arkansas

These states share several common characteristics, including extensive rural freight corridors, a high proportion of two-lane highways, adverse weather conditions, and fewer available rest areas for drivers.

Factors That Increase Accident Risk

Rural Highways

States with a higher percentage of travel occurring in rural areas experience more fatal crashes, particularly head-on collisions and single-vehicle accidents. Long travel distances, limited lighting, and reduced access to emergency services all contribute to the risk.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Ice, fog, and strong winds significantly increase the likelihood of accidents. This factor particularly affects northern states and regions across the Great Plains.

Driver Fatigue and Excessive Driving Hours

Driver fatigue remains one of the leading causes of serious freight transportation accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it contributes to more than 90,000 crashes each year.

Poor Infrastructure and Urban Congestion

States with lower ratings for road and bridge conditions tend to experience higher rates of commercial truck accidents. Likewise, heavily congested metropolitan areas in states such as Texas, California, and Florida account for a large number of multi-vehicle crashes due to high traffic density and the complexity of freight and distribution operations.

How to Reduce Risk

Safety experts recommend that transportation companies use accident data to develop preventive strategies. Key measures include:

• Training drivers to handle high-risk conditions on specific routes.
• Adjusting schedules and routes to reduce exposure to high-crash corridors.
• Monitoring compliance with hours-of-service regulations to prevent fatigue.
• Incorporating risk analysis into insurance decisions and driver evaluations.
• Strengthening documentation and safety protocols to reduce potential legal liability.

Data-driven planning, combined with a proactive safety and regulatory compliance strategy, can help reduce both accidents and the economic and legal consequences faced by trucking companies.