A recent data analysis published by Salter, Healy, Rivera & Heptner examined death rates in the United States. Based on 19 years of data from the CDC (1999-2017), the study reported metrics about which states have the highest and lowest rates of death, both overall and for accidental deaths specifically.
Accidental death is the leading cause of death for younger Americans (ages 44 and under), and the third leading cause of death overall. Common accidental deaths include poisoning (such as drug overdoses), drowning, vehicle accidents, and falls.
When looking at accidental deaths, rates were calculated by using the number of total deaths in that state, and then taking population size into account. Then, a composite score was made that factors in the percentage of total deaths that resulted from unintentional injuries. In other words, the top five states are based on a composite score made up of two factors: the rate at which people in that state die from accidents, and the percentage of all deaths that were accidental.
Top 5 States for Accidental Deaths
The following five states are the places where you are most likely to die from an accident.
1. New Mexico
Unintentional Deaths from 1999-2017: 24,155
Not only does New Mexico take the lead for the highest unintentional death rate, but it has the second highest amount of total deaths as well. Although it’s difficult to pinpoint why, one factor could be New Mexico’s issues with alcohol. Intoxication can lead to car accidents, falls, poisonings, and more.
2. Alaska
Unintentional Deaths from 1999-2017: 6,744
It’s probably no surprise that Alaska made the list, due to its remote and rugged terrain. Many people go to Alaska for outdoor adventurous activities, which could factor into its ranking. It has the sixth highest unintentional death rate but ranks number one for the percentage of deaths that are accidental, bringing it into second place.
3. Wyoming
Unintentional Deaths from 1999-2017: 5,913
In third place is Wyoming, a state that has both metrics in the top five. Wyoming is home to Yellowstone park where accidental deaths happen, which could be a small contribution to the state’s ranking. Although if this were the case, Arizona would probably be on the list due to accidental deaths at the Grand Canyon.
4. Mississippi
Unintentional Deaths from 1999-2017: 32,613
Mississippi had the third highest unintentional death rate, but the ninth highest percentage of deaths caused by accidents, bringing it in at number four.
5. Kentucky
Unintentional Deaths from 1999-2017: 46,709
With the fourth highest unintentional death rate and the tenth spot for percentage of deaths that were accidents, Kentucky comes in in fifth place.
Stay Safe
Although it’s impossible to avoid entire states, or even roads known to be deadly, knowledge is power. By staying aware of how, where, and why fatalities happen, we can better protect ourselves and decrease our risk of accidents.