Today’s Top Driving Dangers
From texting behind the wheel to aggressive driving, today’s roads are more dangerous than ever—at least that’s what many Americans believe. A recent Pew Research Center survey uncovered the driving behaviors people perceive as the greatest threats on the road.
Are Drivers Less Safe Than Five Years Ago?
Nearly half of Americans (49%) say people are driving less safely than they did five years ago, with 23% stating they are driving a lot less safely. But perspectives vary depending on how often people drive and where they live:
- Frequent drivers worry more: 51% of those who drive at least once a week believe driving has become more dangerous, compared to 36% of those who drive less often.
- Suburban drivers are the most concerned: People in suburban areas are slightly more likely to report a decline in driving safety compared to urban and rural residents.
The #1 Danger
Topping the list of concerns is cell phone distraction, with a staggering 78% of Americans citing it as a major problem in their community. The near-universal concern suggests that drivers across all demographics and locations witness this risky behavior regularly.
Opinions on other risky driving dangers vary based on location, but several risky behaviors stand out:
Speeding & Aggressive Driving
- 63% of Americans say speeding and aggressive driving are major problems.
- Rural residents are slightly less concerned than suburban drivers (58% vs. 63%).
- Urban drivers are the most likely to perceive tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights as serious issues.
Driving Under the Influence
- Alcohol: 51% of Americans see drunk driving as a major problem.
- Marijuana: 37% see driving under the influence of marijuana as a major issue, while 45% see it as a minor problem. Concern is slightly higher in states where marijuana is legal.
Endangering Pedestrians & Cyclists
- 53% of lower-income Americans say drivers put pedestrians and cyclists at risk, compared to 44% of middle- or upper-income individuals.
- Lower-income communities experience higher pedestrian fatality rates, partly because people without vehicles may walk on poorly lit roads or unsafe routes.
The Rise of Road Rage
Road rage is a growing concern:
- 27% of Americans say they witness road rage extremely or very often.
- 45% report seeing it sometimes.
- Urban residents are the most likely to report road rage incidents.
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