The Deadliest Driving Month Depends on the Risk
October Leads the Nation, but Speeding, DUI and Pedestrian Deaths Follow Different Calendars Fatal crashes do not follow a single national schedule. While holiday weekends and summer road trips often receive the most attention, a state-by-state analysis by Sweet James found that the most dangerous period for drivers depends heavily on the type of roadway risk involved. Across the United States, 36,297 fatal motor vehicle crashes were recorded in 2024 . October produced the highest national total, with 3,369 fatal crashes , narrowly exceeding August and September. Deadliest Months Overall Fatal Crashes October 3,369 August 3,342 September 3,277 October was also the most common deadliest month at the state level. It ranked first in 24 states , compared with seven states each for April and July and five states each for June and August. The findings show that fatal crash risks become particularly elevated during the transition from summer into fall. However, the calend...