From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
MONTGOMERY — The state of Alabama ranked fourth for the most dangerous state for drivers, in a new study by Esurance.
Esurance analyzed National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data to uncover where dangers are most prevalent. Alabama had 19.4 crash fatalities per 100,000 residents, according to the study. Furthermore, 27% of Alabama roadway fatalities were due to speeding. Meanwhile, 6% were due to distracted driving.
Nationwide, there was a 15% increase in traffic fatalities between 2013 and 2017. However, there was a slight decrease between 2016 and 2017. Esurance believes this could indicate that safety features in new cars are working to make roads safer.
Esurance
The study showed a majority of dangerous roadways are in rural areas where local law enforcement is challenged. Other factors contributing to crash deaths include hazardously high speed limits, fewer lights, more livestock and inconsistent roadway surfaces.
