New Yorkers: This Everyday Driving Move Is the Most Dangerous

As we get ready to travel for the Labor Day weekend, here is something that we all should keep in mind. When it comes to driving, you probably think that the dangerous driving moves are the tricky ones.

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But the truth is, just driving in a straight line is the most deadly. A new report shows that over 60% of fatal car crashes in the U.S. happen while someone is just going straight down the road.

Curves and Left Turns Are Also Risky

The second most dangerous move is driving around a curve or bend. That kind of driving causes nearly 19% of deadly crashes. The third most dangerous is turning left, with about 8% of the fatal crashes.

Other Dangerous Moves on the Road

Passing another car, changing lanes, or stopping suddenly in the road also cause deadly crashes, but not as many. Even making a U-turn or starting to drive can lead to a crash. The report shows that it’s not just big moves that are risky, it’s the simple ones too.

Parking Is the Safest Move

The safest thing you can do while driving? Parking. The report found that pulling into a parking spot was linked to the fewest fatal crashes—only 0.02%. That makes it the least risky move on the road. Note that they said fatal crashes.

More Deadly Crashes Are Happening

In 2022, there were over 50,000 deadly car crashes in the U.S. That number has gone up 14% in the last five years. Light trucks, like pickups and SUVs, were in more deadly crashes than any other kind of vehicle. Passenger cars were second, and motorcycles were third. Large trucks and buses were also involved in fatal crashes, but not as many.

Why This Matters for New York Drivers

If you drive in New York, this is a good reminder to always stay focused even when you're just driving straight. Many crashes happen during everyday trips, not just in bad weather or traffic. Have fun this Labor Day weekend but stay alert and drive carefully. You could help save your life or someone else’s.