A recent study by Forbes Advisor has placed Oregon drivers near the bottom of the list when it comes to safe driving behaviors, ranking the state second for the worst driving habits in the United States. Released on August 21, the study analyzed driving data across all states to assess various dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.
Oregon drivers particularly stood out for their propensity to run red lights, refuse to yield to other vehicles, and speed in school zones. These alarming statistics contribute to the state’s overall poor ranking, highlighting significant issues in road safety and driver awareness.
Hawaii took the dubious honor of being ranked the worst for drivers nationwide, with high incidences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, excessive speeding, and texting while driving. However, Oregon’s performance in the study raises concern, particularly with the finding that 45% of drivers admitted to speeding (less than 10 mph over the limit) in the past month.
The study identified other states with troubling driving records, including New Mexico, Wyoming, and Alaska, which rounded out the top five worst drivers in the nation. The analysis emphasized that speeding—especially when it falls within the less than 10 mph over the speed limit range—is considered the worst driving habit in the U.S., followed closely by distractions such as eating while driving and the rush to accelerate through yellow lights.
Offering comprehensive driver education courses that cover safe driving practices, the importance of obeying traffic laws, and the consequences of unsafe driving. These programs can be implemented in schools, community centers, or through online platforms.
