A recent study by ConsumerAffairs has identified Southern California as home to some of the nation’s worst drivers, particularly in the Inland Empire region. The report, titled Worst Drivers in America 2024, highlights that Victorville and San Bernardino rank as the second and fourth worst cities for driving in the country, respectively, based on various traffic safety metrics.
The study analyzes data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, focusing on fatal crash statistics, including those related to impaired driving and speeding. Victorville’s high ranking is attributed to its significant number of alcohol-related traffic fatalities, where it stands second-highest, and fifth for deadly speeding-related crashes. San Bernardino, while lower on the list, has the highest rate of DUI-related crashes in the county, with 7.7 incidents per 100,000 people, and leads in fatalities linked to speeding at 11.3 per 100,000.
Local residents express little surprise at the findings, noting frequent accidents and reckless driving behaviors. Erika Grijavla, a resident, highlighted the severe impacts of traffic incidents, including fatalities at dangerous intersections. Darlene, a school crossing guard, pointed out that many drivers neglect traffic rules, particularly in school zones, with only a fraction stopping at stop signs.
Despite these troubling statistics, California overall ranks 33rd out of 50 states in terms of driving safety. The study defines bad driving as behaviors such as aggressive driving, failure to yield, and illegal maneuvers. Memphis, Tennessee, topped the list for the second consecutive year, followed by Macon, Georgia No. 3 and Jackson, Mississippi No. 5. Other Southern California cities in the top 50 include Fontana No. 31, Riverside No. 40, Orange No. 43, and Corona No. 47.