SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - A new study by auto accident attorneys Sutliff & Stout revealed that California had the seventh-highest rate of fatal crashes involving an unlicensed driver between 2019 and 2023.

The study analyzed 2019 to 2023 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) to find the proportion of fatal crashes that occurred in each state where the driver’s license was “suspended,” “revoked,” “expired” “canceled,” “denied” or “not licensed.” 

The average number of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers was calculated as a proportion of all fatal crashes during the five-year period. 

California had the seventh-highest rate, at 17.53%, not too far behind Texas, which had the highest rate, at 20.14%.

“According to our analysis, a staggering 41,375 drivers were involved in fatal crashes between 2019 and 2023, who didn’t hold a valid driving license,” said Hank Stout, co-founder of Sutliff & Stout. “Driving without a license is not only illegal but also extremely irresponsible. Unlicensed drivers are more likely to take risks, such as speeding or driving under the influence. These offenders are also unlikely to be insured, making it more difficult for victims to claim financial compensation if their actions cause a collision.” 

Texas has the highest rate, with 20.14% (1,184 out of 5,880) of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. Between 2019 and 2023, Texas experienced an average of 3.99 fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers per 100,000 people, ranking it ninth in the nation for this statistic.

Hawaii follows closely in second- place, with 19.73% (26 out of 134) of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. From 2019 to 2023, Hawaii had an average of 1.84 fatal crashes per 100,000 people.

Louisiana ranks third, with 18.06% (227 out of 1,193) of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. Over the same five-year period, Louisiana had an average of 4.92 fatal crashes per 100,000 people, the second-highest rate in the country.

North Carolina holds the fourth position, with 17.72% (403 out of 2,213) of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. Between 2019 and 2023, the state had an average of 3.80 fatal crashes per 100,000 people, the 10th-highest rate in the U.S.

Finally, Montana ranks fifth, with 17.93% (46 out of 257) of fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers. From 2019 to 2023, Montana experienced an average of 4.17 fatal crashes per 100,000 people, making it the seventh-highest state for this statistic.

For more information, visit sutliffstout.com/houston-car-accident-lawyer.