Anchorage is the most populated city in Alaska. But even as the most populated city, it has fewer than 291,000 residents. In fact, the state of Alaska is larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined – but it only had 731,545 residents in 2019!
These numbers are important because Alaska has fewer drivers than any other state in the US. However, Alaska also has the worst drivers in the US.
A 2020 study found that Alaska has the most dangerous drivers as a group. The study relied on the number of traffic fatalities, incidents of drunk driving accidents, and speeding accidents. Failure to obey traffic laws, distracted driving, and careless driving were considered as well.
Alaska received high marks for drunk driving and speeding. In 2018, the state had 80 traffic fatalities. Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians were among those killed.
The most recent data supplied by the Alaska Highway Safety Office paints a grim picture as well. In 2017, the state experienced 79 fatalities in 75 fatal crashes. Drunk driving and speeding account for more than 97 percent of Alaska’s traffic fatalities. It’s unclear why the state has such a high rate of drunk drivers. However, it’s a problem that needs addressing.
Are you an Anchorage resident? A defensive driving course can help you brush up on your knowledge of the road. You’ll become a safer driver, and help make Anchorage roads safer.