South Carolina Joins Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Alabama, Wyoming, Montana and More US States are Dangerous to Travel by Road, New Update is Here 

Published on December 30, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In a new update, South Carolina has joined a growing list of US states that are dangerous to travel by road. Alongside states like Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Alabama, Wyoming, and Montana, South Carolina is now being flagged as a state where road travel could pose serious risks. Dangerous road conditions, unpredictable weather patterns, and high traffic accident rates have prompted travel experts and authorities to advise caution for those planning long-distance drives through these states. This new update is crucial for travellers who need to be aware of the increased risks on the road. Whether it’s poor infrastructure, weather-related hazards, or road safety concerns, these states are becoming increasingly dangerous for drivers.

With South Carolina now added to the list of dangerous road travel destinations, it’s more important than ever to stay informed. If you’re planning to drive through Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Alabama, Wyoming, Montana, or South Carolina, you’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure your safety. Travel And Tour World urges you to read the full story to understand the challenges you may face when travelling by road through these states.

New Year’s Eve can be one of the most exhilarating nights of the year. The excitement of ringing in the new year with friends and family is unparalleled. However, a recent study by CarInsurance.com unveils a chilling reality: certain times and places are far more dangerous for drivers than others.

 According to the report, after the clock strikes midnight, the chances of being involved in a fatal accident surge dramatically. But it’s not just the time that’s a concern; the most dangerous states and counties across the U.S. show a glaring concentration of risk, with the southern states and Florida topping the list. Read on to discover the most perilous driving hours, the states and counties where the danger is highest, and essential safety tips to keep you safe on the road this New Year’s.

The Most Dangerous Time to Drive on New Year’s Eve – 1 AM to 3 AM

The study found that the most dangerous time to be on the road during New Year’s Eve is after the ball drops, between 1 AM and 3 AM. This alarming period sees drivers approximately 1.5 times more likely to be involved in a fatal traffic accident than if they were driving between 12 AM and 1 AM. It’s a time when the celebratory mood turns into risky behavior. Alcohol levels are often at their highest during this time, with many still intoxicated after ringing in the new year, which leads to dangerous driving. Whether you’re heading to a late-night party or returning from a night out, this period is when fatalities soar.

The South Dominates: Top Dangerous States for New Year’s Driving

The report also highlights a disturbing trend: eight out of the ten most dangerous states to drive in during New Year’s are located in the southern United States. These states, including South Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Alabama,Arkansas, Texas, and Tennessee, all report significantly higher numbers of traffic fatalities during the New Year’s holiday than other parts of the country. This is a worrying trend, especially given that these regions also have higher rates of drunk driving incidents. Drivers in these states face not only the increased risk from alcohol but also the heavy traffic and distracted driving that comes with large gatherings and celebrations.

Florida’s Stranglehold on Dangerous Driving Zones

Among all the states in the U.S., Florida stands out in terms of sheer risk. The Sunshine State not only leads the state-level danger rankings but also dominates the county-level charts. The report found that four of the ten most dangerous counties for New Year’s driving are in Florida, including Sarasota County, Manatee County, Collier County, and Volusia County. Florida’s popularity as a holiday destination likely contributes to the increased traffic and higher risk during the holiday season. With millions of visitors flocking to the state for its beaches, resorts, and theme parks, the risk of accidents skyrockets, especially late at night when alcohol consumption is at its peak.

Most Dangerous Counties: Florida and Tennessee Lead the Way

When breaking down the data further, it’s clear that Florida and Tennessee have the most perilous counties for driving on New Year’s. In Davidson County, TN, home to Nashville, and Shelby County, TN, where Memphis is located, the danger level for drivers is alarmingly high. These counties see increased accidents due to both high traffic volume and a significant presence of impaired drivers. Florida, on the other hand, continues to dominate with Fresno County, CA and Montgomery County, OH also making the list. The combination of impaired driving and congested roads makes these areas some of the deadliest to drive in during the holiday season.

CarInsurance.com’s Essential Safety Tips: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Understanding the risks is the first step towards ensuring your safety on the road. CarInsurance.com has provided crucial safety tips that could save your life this New Year’s Eve:

• Do not drive under the influence: Alcohol impairs judgment and reflexes. Arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or take public transportation. Many cities offer free transportation options during the holiday.
• Drive distraction-free: Texting or checking messages while driving is incredibly dangerous. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in catastrophic consequences.
• Avoid peak travel times: As we’ve seen, the most dangerous time for accidents is between 1 AM and 3 AM. If possible, plan your travel outside of these hours.
• Leave plenty of space: Always maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and others. This gives you more time to react if another driver makes an unsafe move.

Why Alcohol and Late-Night Driving Are a Deadly Combination

As the data shows, alcohol is one of the leading factors contributing to the dangerous driving patterns around New Year’s. The late hours between 1 AM and 3 AM see a significant increase in traffic fatalities due to impaired driving. Alcohol reduces reaction time, impairs decision-making, and increases the likelihood of risky driving behaviors. While many people assume they’re fine to drive after a few drinks, the reality is that alcohol affects everyone differently. Even small amounts can impair judgment and reaction times.

Conclusion: How to Stay Safe and Celebrate Responsibly

As we approach New Year’s Eve, it’s important to remember that safety should always come first. The study conducted by CarInsurance.com reveals critical insights into the dangers of New Year’s driving, particularly between the hours of 1 AM and 3 AM and in southern states like South Carolina and Florida. By being aware of these risks, planning ahead, and following the safety tips provided, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones remain safe throughout the holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or heading out for a celebration, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Celebrate responsibly, stay alert, and keep the roads safe for everyone.