CARFAX: Fall is most dangerous season for car accidents in U.S.
The Season with the Most Accidents is Fall for 39 of 50 U.S. States
Next week, tens of millions of drivers will hit the road during what CARFAX data shows is the most dangerous season to drive: Fall.
While many may assume winter brings the most crashes, CARFAX analysis of millions of car accidents in 2024 found that in 39 states, fall accounted for the highest percentage of accidents compared to all other seasons. States with the most crashes during the fall months include California, Texas, New York, Illinois, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri and Wisconsin.
“Seasonal shifts can bring new risks on the road, making this a good time to slow down, stay alert, and check for maintenance or open recalls to ensure the safety of the vehicle and everyone on the road,” said Faisal Hasan, Vice President of Data Acquisition at CARFAX. “CARFAX has the most accident, damage, and service information that no one else has, offering these insights to keep drivers informed and one step ahead.”
Experts point to several factors that make fall roads more dangerous: diminishing daylight, slick surfaces from leaves and debris, and an increase in deer activity during mating and migration season. The National Safety Council notes that drivers are twice as likely to have an accident in the dark, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that braking on wet leaves can more than double stopping distances.
Deer-related crashes also rise in the last few months of the year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute.
Winter remains the most hazardous season in six states — Connecticut, Oklahoma, Vermont, New Hampshire, Montana, and North Dakota. Summer sees the most crashes in Hawaii, Washington and Oregon, while in Pennsylvania and Florida, spring is the most dangerous season for drivers.
CARFAX urges drivers to prepare by slowing down and keeping up with regular maintenance, including checking tire pressure, battery strength, wiper blades, and fluid levels. Experts also recommend adding winter tires as temperatures drop and packing a year-round survival kit with essentials such as water, food, blankets, flares, a flashlight, and first-aid supplies.
Consumers can also sign up for free reminders through the CARFAX Car Care app, which alerts drivers about upcoming service, recalls, and local repair shops.
