New analysis shows Baton Rouge leads the nation with more than double the average alcohol-involved fatal crash rate

An in-depth analysis of 10 years of federal fatal crash data reveals stark differences in alcohol-related fatal crash rates across major U.S. cities, with cities like Baton Rouge, Louisiana experiencing disproportionately high rates of deadly drunk driving incidents.

Key Findings

  • Baton Rouge, Louisiana, topped the list with an average annual 4.12 alcohol-related fatal crashes per 100,000 residents, more than double the national average of 1.98.

  • Other high-rate cities included Dayton, Ohio; St. Louis, Missouri; and Kansas City, Missouri, all significantly above the national mean.

  • Among the nation’s largest metro areas, Dallas, Texas stood out with a rate of 3.01 per 100,000, highlighting the issue extends beyond smaller cities.

  • Several large coastal cities, including San Francisco, New York City, and Chicago, were among the lowest in alcohol-related fatal crash rates, challenging common assumptions about nightlife and impaired driving risk.

  • Cary, North Carolina recorded zero alcohol-related fatal crashes over the decade studied.

Traffic safety analysts note that these disparities reflect both behavioral and infrastructure factors, including car dependence and availability of alternative transportation. “Higher rates in places with less transit and greater vehicle reliance suggest that access to safe, sober transportation can be a critical part of reducing alcohol-related fatalities,” said a Senior Traffic Safety Analyst familiar with the data.

Why This Matters

Alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of traffic deaths nationwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13,524 people were killed in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes in 2022, accounting for roughly 32 percent of all traffic fatalities. These preventable deaths occur at an average rate of one every 39 minutes and have a substantial public health and economic toll. Understanding where fatal crashes are most common can help inform targeted prevention, enforcement, and transportation planning efforts.

Methodology

The analysis examined 10 years of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data (2014–2023), focusing on fatal crashes where at least one driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) ≥ 0.08 g/dL, and calculated average annual rates per 100,000 population using 2023 Census estimates. View the full report here: https://gonzalez-lawyer.com/which-u-s-cities-are-struggling-with-alcohol-related-fatal-crashes/

About Gonzalez Torres Law

Gonzalez Torres Law is a Georgia-based law firm dedicated to providing skilled, client-focused representation in personal injury, immigration, and criminal defense cases. With over 18 years of combined experience and more than $15 million recovered in settlements, the firm serves clients throughout Gwinnett County and surrounding areas, including Norcross, Alpharetta, Duluth, and Peachtree Corners. The firm's bilingual team ensures clear communication and accessible legal guidance for all clients, handling every case personally from start to finish. Committed to integrity, transparency, and relentless advocacy, Gonzalez Torres Law fights to protect the rights of those who have been injured due to negligence, face immigration challenges, or have been accused of crimes.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call (770) 475-8186 or visit https://gonzalez-lawyer.com/.

Media Contact
Company Name: Gonzalez Torres Law
Email: Send Email
Address:1770 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd NW #350
City: Norcross
State: GA 30093
Country: United States
Website: https://gonzalez-lawyer.com/

 

Press Release Distributed by ABNewswire.com
To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: U.S. Cities With Highest Rates of Alcohol-Related Fatal Crashes Revealed

Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected]