Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
Oklahoma has recently been ranked as the 5th most dangerous state for drivers in the U.S., a title that highlights significant safety concerns on the state’s roads. This ranking, determined by a study from 24/7 Wall St, is based on various factors, including traffic fatalities, alcohol-related crashes, and seat belt usage rates.
Despite efforts to improve road safety, Oklahoma continues to face challenges in reducing the number of accidents and deaths. In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors contributing to Oklahoma’s high traffic danger ranking and provide helpful guidance on how to drive safely in the state.
According to the study, Oklahoma’s traffic fatalities, seatbelt usage, and alcohol-involved crashes have contributed to its dangerous ranking. The analysis, which utilized data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlights several crucial areas that make driving in Oklahoma particularly risky. Here’s a closer look at the most critical findings.
In 2023, Oklahoma saw 762 traffic fatalities, a significant increase compared to previous years. This troubling statistic places the state among the highest in the country for roadway deaths. The fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) was 1.59 in 2023, an increase from 1.4 in 2019.
This data signals an urgent need for improved safety measures on Oklahoma’s roads. The state’s accident rate reflects not only the number of accidents but also the severity of these crashes.
Every fatal crash is more than a number—it’s a family torn apart. We must treat these statistics as a call to action.— National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) official
One factor contributing to Oklahoma’s ranking is its lower seat belt usage rate. In 2023, only 81.2% of Oklahoma drivers used seat belts, compared to the 92% national average. This percentage varies by vehicle type, with pickup trucks having a lower usage rate of 72.7% compared to 84.2% for other vehicles.
Seatbelts are one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce fatalities in a crash, and this statistic highlights the critical need for increased awareness and enforcement.
Seat belts save lives, but only when they’re worn. Buckling up is the single most effective way to survive a crash.— Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
Another concerning trend is the increase in alcohol-related traffic fatalities. From 2018 to 2022, the number of deaths from alcohol-involved crashes in Oklahoma rose by 29%. This statistic underscores the importance of maintaining a zero-tolerance approach toward impaired driving. Despite widespread public awareness campaigns, the rise in alcohol-related fatalities shows that there is still much work to be done to curb impaired driving.
The road is no place for impaired decisions. One drink too many can cost a life.— Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
Oklahoma also faces a significant problem with speeding-related fatalities. In 2023, speed-related crashes accounted for 28% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S., a 21% increase from 2018. This includes a significant number of deaths in Oklahoma. Excessive speed reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance, and ultimately contributes to the severity of crashes.
Oklahoma’s position as the 5th most dangerous state for drivers is more than just a ranking. It highlights the real risks for everyone on the road. Whether you’re commuting in Tulsa, driving through Oklahoma City, or navigating rural highways, the dangers are present. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and others while driving.
Every driver needs to play a part in improving road safety. Here are some straightforward steps you can take to reduce your risk:
These simple but effective measures can significantly lower your chances of being involved in an accident. Safety starts with each of us making responsible choices every time we get behind the wheel.
Statistic | Number | Percentage |
| Total fatalities | 762 | |
| Fatality rate (per 100M VMT) | 1.59 | |
| Seatbelt use rate | 81.2% | |
| Alcohol-related fatalities increase (2018-2022) | 29% increase | |
| Speed-related fatalities | 28% of total fatalities |
Oklahoma drivers deserve safer roads. That starts with better laws, better enforcement—and better choices.— Oklahoma Highway Safety Office
Oklahoma’s high fatality rate, low seatbelt usage, and increasing alcohol-related crashes contribute to its ranking as one of the most dangerous states for drivers.
In 2023, Oklahoma’s seatbelt usage rate was 81.2%, which is lower than the national average of 92%.
From 2018 to 2022, fatalities in alcohol-involved crashes increased by 29% in Oklahoma, showing a concerning rise in impaired driving deaths.
Drivers should always wear seatbelts, obey speed limits, and avoid driving under the influence. These simple actions can reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Counties like Tulsa, Cleveland, and Rogers report the highest average fatalities, reflecting the need for targeted road safety initiatives in these areas.
Oklahoma has implemented public awareness campaigns, seatbelt enforcement initiatives, and efforts to curb impaired driving, but more work is needed to make roads safer.
Oklahoma’s ranking as one of the most dangerous states for drivers emphasizes the urgent need for changes in driver behavior and road safety enforcement. While some progress has been made, there is still a long way to go. By making safer choices—such as wearing seatbelts, obeying speed limits, and avoiding driving under the influence—we can all contribute to reducing Oklahoma’s traffic fatalities.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma, it is essential to seek legal counsel. Graves McLain Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling situations involving car crashes and can help you navigate the court system. Even while the numbers could seem alarming, keep in mind that the choice of legal counsel might affect how your case turns out.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
