ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico ranks as the ninth most dangerous state in the nation for delivery drivers, according to a new study analyzing roadway risks and job-related hazards across 29 states.
The report, conducted by AutoDS, evaluated states using four factors: road fatalities, dog attacks, vehicle theft rates, and average commute times. Researchers combined those metrics into a “danger index” designed to measure the risks delivery drivers face while on the job.
New Mexico received a danger score of 79.4 out of 100, placing it ninth overall.
The state’s ranking was driven largely by its high rate of vehicle theft. According to the study, New Mexico recorded 556.2 vehicle thefts per 100,000 residents, the third-highest rate among the states analyzed.
Researchers also found New Mexico experienced 1.43 road deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, while the state’s average commute time of 24 minutes was among the shorter commute times included in the report.
The study noted that although drivers in New Mexico typically spend less time on the road than drivers in many other states, they face elevated risks from vehicle crime and traffic fatalities.
Mississippi ranked as the most dangerous state for delivery drivers, followed by Missouri and Colorado. Utah ranked as the least dangerous state among those included in the analysis.
Researchers said the findings highlight how risks for delivery drivers can vary widely from state to state, with some areas affected more by traffic safety concerns and others by property crime.
Top 10 Most Dangerous States for Delivery Drivers
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Colorado
- Tennessee
- California
- Nevada
- Arizona
- Louisiana
- New Mexico
- Illinois
