It Is Official: Louisiana Drivers Are the Worst in the U.S.

It is the kind of recognition that no state wants: the designation of having the worst drivers in the United States. This year that dishonor goes to Louisiana with Missouri and Texas close behind.

According to a Car Insurance Comparison study, five factors were considered in determining where the worst drivers resided. These include:

• Fatalities per million miles traveled
• Drunk driving
• Number of traffic tickets issued
• Failure to obey traffic signals
• Careless driving

In every category except failing to obey traffic signals, Louisiana drivers finished in the bottom 10. Where are the safest drivers? Well, according to the data compiled from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), the American Motorists Association and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, that honor goes north to Rhode Island.

The Cost of Being the Worst

Beyond the stigma of being labeled terrible drivers, Louisianans' poor driving skills and reckless habits have also resulted in very high insurance rates. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, auto insurance premiums are among the most expensive in the nation.

With the high cost of insurance, some drivers have chosen to forego the expense. In fact, current Louisiana Insurance Commissioner James Donelon believes more than 10 percent of drivers are uninsured and 40 percent have minimal liability coverage. Unfortunately, if these uninsured and underinsured drivers cause an accident, they will likely not have the financial resources to cover the costs of injury and loss.

For other motorists injured by uninsured or underinsured drivers, personal UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage may pay for damages not covered by the at-fault driver. However, working through a UM/UIM claim can be complex and time consuming. Further, some unscrupulous insurance companies may be hesitant to provide full compensation for losses.

Following an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, it is important to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in handling UM/UIM and insurance bad faith claims. During a free initial consultation, the lawyer will assess the situation, discuss legal options and determine if grounds are present for pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver, his/her insurance company or the injured party's insurance company.