Every year, thousands of people lose their lives on U.S. roads due to vehicle crashes, and nearly one-third of those deaths are caused by alcohol-impaired drivers. A new analysis by Siegfried & Jensen reveals which vehicles are most often involved in drunk-driving accidents, which states see the most alcohol-related crashes, and which age groups are most at risk.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, there were 40,901 traffic fatalities in 2023—a 4.6% decrease from 2022. But 12,429 of those deaths (30%) were linked to drunk driving, alongside 2.44 million injuries from more than 6.1 million reported crashes.
Vehicles Most Involved in Drunk-Driving Crashes
Light trucks were involved in the highest number of drunk-driving crashes (4,946), followed by passenger cars (4,505), motorcycles (1,668), and large trucks (187).
Among specific makes and models, the Chevrolet Silverado led the nation, involved in more drunk-driving crashes than any other vehicle. Other top vehicles included the Ford F-150, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and GMC Sierra—all of which also rank among the most popular cars on U.S. roads.
Top vehicle highlights from 2023 alcohol-related crashes:
- Chevrolet Silverado – 1,054 incidents (most common in 22 states, including Texas, Florida, and Georgia)
- Ford F-150 – 838 incidents (most common in 8 states, including Alabama, Louisiana, and Ohio)
- Honda Accord – 645 incidents (most common in California, New York, Maryland, and North Carolina)
- Nissan Altima – 505 incidents (led in Connecticut, Tennessee, Virginia, and New Jersey)
- GMC Sierra – 417 incidents (highest in rural and mountain states such as Idaho, Maine, and New Mexico)
The overlap between drunk-driving crashes and the most popular vehicles on the road suggests frequency is more about vehicle prevalence than brand-specific risk.
States with the Most Drunk-Driving Crashes
In 2023, the states with the highest numbers of alcohol-related crashes were:
- California – 4,644
- Texas – 3,608
- Florida – 1,366
- Georgia – 1,262
- Arizona – 1,006
- North Carolina – 941
- Colorado – 883
- South Carolina – 822
- Washington – 806
- Tennessee – 750
Conversely, states with the lowest alcohol-related fatalities tend to have stricter drunk-driving laws, better enforcement, lower alcohol consumption rates, and more robust public transportation systems.
Who Is Most Likely to Drive Drunk?
The study found that Millennials (1981–1996) and Gen Z (1997–2012) are most likely to drive under the influence, often due to inexperience, overconfidence, and social pressure.
Gender differences are also stark: men account for 73.2% of all alcohol-related crashes, making them three times more likely than women to drive drunk. Men are also more likely to drive pickup trucks—vehicles heavily represented in alcohol-related crash data.
Key factors include:
- Higher rates of binge drinking among young men
- Risk-taking behavior and overconfidence behind the wheel
- Limited transportation alternatives in rural and suburban areas
Staying Safe on the Roads
Drivers are urged to take extra caution around the vehicles most often linked to drunk-driving incidents, particularly Silverados, F-150s, Accords, Civics, and Camrys. Late nights and weekends pose the highest risk.
Tips to avoid collisions include:
- Keep a safe distance from vehicles showing erratic behavior
- Watch for warning signs like swerving, inconsistent speeds, or sudden braking
- Do not attempt to pass or confront a suspected drunk driver
- Call local authorities to report dangerous driving
Defensive driving remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash.
Legal Help After a Drunk-Driving Crash
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, Siegfried & Jensen can help. Our experienced team has fought for thousands of crash victims across Utah and beyond, ensuring they receive the compensation and justice they deserve.
