Quick answer
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of NHTSA data, Delaware recorded 675 traffic deaths in 628 fatal crashes from 2020 to 2024 — 13.3 per 100,000 residents per year, ranking #23 of 50 states (most dangerous first); the US average is 12.3.
Traffic Deaths 2020–2024
Deaths per 100K per Year
State Rank
Delaware Traffic Deaths by Year
The Most Dangerous Delaware Cities to Drive In
All 5 ranked Delaware cities by Road Danger Score (5-year traffic deaths per 100,000 residents, most dangerous first).
| # | City | Danger Score | Deaths (2020–2024) | Deaths per 100K/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Newark | 93/100 | 29 | 19.3 |
| 2 | Dover | 58/100 | 18 | 9.0 |
| 3 | Smyrna | 58/100 | 6 | 9.0 |
| 4 | Wilmington | 55/100 | 31 | 8.6 |
| 5 | Middletown | 31/100 | 7 | 5.5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many car accidents happen in Delaware?
NHTSA's Fatality Analysis Reporting System recorded 628 fatal car accidents in Delaware from 2020 to 2024, killing 675 people — an average of 135 traffic deaths per year.
How dangerous are Delaware roads compared to other states?
Delaware averages 13.3 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents per year, ranking #23 of 50 states (most dangerous first). The US average is 12.3 per 100,000.
What causes fatal car accidents in Delaware?
Of Delaware's fatal crashes in 2020–2024, 24% involved a drinking driver, 30% involved speeding, and 53% happened in dark conditions.
Which Delaware city is the most dangerous to drive in?
Among ranked Delaware cities, Newark has the highest Road Danger Score (93/100) at 19.3 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents per year.