While many drivers brace for icy roads and snowstorms, new data reveals that the most dangerous season for vehicle accidents in the majority of the U.S. has actually already passed. A new comprehensive Accident & Damage Report from CARFAX shows that in 39 states, Fall accounts for the highest percentage of accidents compared to all other seasons. This data upends the long-held assumption that Winter poses the greatest risk on the road.
What States Have the Most Car Accidents?
States with the highest number of autumn crashes include major areas like California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Georgia. Several factors contributed to this seasonal spike. Diminishing daylight means more driving in the dark, where accident likelihood doubles. Slick road surfaces from wet leaves and tree debris can significantly increase braking distances. Furthermore, Fall is peak mating and migration season for deer, leading to a sharp rise in animal-related collisions. Winter remains hazardous, however, marking the season with the highest number of accidents in six states, including Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Montana.
“Seasonal shifts can bring new risks on the road, making this a good time to slow down, stay alert, and check for maintenance or open recalls to ensure the safety of the vehicle and everyone on the road,” said Faisal Hasan, Vice President of Data Acquisition at CARFAX. “CARFAX has the most accident, damage, and service information that no one else has, offering these insights to keep drivers informed and one step ahead.”
What Day are Car Accidents Most Likely to Occur?
The CARFAX report also delves into the specifics of when and how these incidents occur. Data analysis reveals that Friday is the most common day for accidents nationwide, with 42 states showing the highest volume of crashes occurring at the end of the workweek. This trend is often attributed to heavier traffic, driver fatigue, and a higher likelihood of distracted or impaired driving. Conversely, Sunday is almost universally the day with the fewest reported crashes.
“Drivers need to stay vigilant anytime they’re on the road,” said Chief John Fisher of the Bedford, Mass., Police Department. “Law enforcement responds to hundreds of thousands of crashes on Fridays, often due to heavy traffic, fatigue, and distracted or impaired driving. These incidents can cause major delays, damage, and serious injuries. While Saturdays see more fatalities, according to NHTSA (the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), the sheer volume of Friday accidents makes it one of the most dangerous days to drive.”
When accidents do happen, certain types are far more prevalent than others. Based on incidents reported to CARFAX in 2024, rear-end collisions are the most common type, accounting for a staggering 60.7 percent of reported situations. Side-swipe collisions follow at 30.9 percent, with single-vehicle incidents making up 5.4 percent. In terms of vehicle damage, the front of the car is the most frequently affected area, involved in over 50 percent of incidents. The driver’s side of the vehicle also tends to sustain more damage than the passenger side.
How to Stay Safe During the Fall and Winter Seasons
For drivers, these insights serve as a critical reminder to remain vigilant regardless of the weather. CARFAX recommends several proactive safety measures to prepare for Fall and Winter driving. These include slowing down, checking tire pressure as temperatures drop, ensuring wiper blades and fluid levels are adequate, and testing the car battery, which can lose power in cold weather. For those in colder climates, packing a winter survival kit with essentials like a blanket, water, and first-aid supplies is also advised. By understanding the specific risks associated with each season and time of week, drivers can better prepare and reduce their chances of being a part of the 2026 report.
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