A new study analyzing the safety of delivery drivers on U.S. roads has found New York ranks among the top five safest states, while Wyoming is the most dangerous. The research, conducted by H&P Law using 2022 data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), highlights significant variations in delivery driver accident rates across the nation.
Wyoming, with 5.99 delivery vehicle accidents per 100,000 residents, recorded the highest rate in the country. New Mexico and North Dakota followed, with 5.20 and 4.08 accidents per 100,000 residents, respectively. Other high-risk states include Arkansas and Montana, both exceeding 3.5 accidents per 100,000 residents.
By contrast, Hawaii emerged as the safest state, with just 0.35 delivery vehicle accidents per 100,000 residents. Rhode Island and Massachusetts tied for the second-lowest rate at 0.46, followed by New York at 0.61 and Utah at 0.88. The study focused on incidents involving vehicles with a Motor Carrier Identification Number (MCID), which is federally required for vehicles engaged in interstate commerce.
Matthew Pfau, a partner at H&P Law, emphasized the risks faced by delivery drivers in high-accident states, urging them to prioritize safety measures. “Delivery drivers face significant risks on the road, particularly as they rush to meet demanding delivery schedules,” Pfau said. He advised drivers to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and stressed the importance of checking brakes and avoiding distractions like texting while driving.
Delivery services have seen a surge in demand in recent years, fueled by e-commerce and food delivery platforms, intensifying the need for road safety. The study serves as a reminder of the unique challenges these workers face and the importance of infrastructure and policy measures to protect them.
The full report ranks all 50 states and underscores the disparities in safety conditions for delivery drivers, pointing to broader transportation and regulatory issues. For more information, visit courtroomproven.com.