Not all roads are created equal. While driving is a daily routine for millions, the level of risk varies drastically depending on where you are. Some countries are riddled with dangerous roads due to poor infrastructure, severe weather conditions, and high accident rates, making every drive a potential hazard.
“Whether you’re driving to work or planning a road trip, understanding these safety contrasts can be life-saving,” says life insurance expert Meredith Bell, Director of Marketing at Everly Life. “Knowing where the risks are highest empowers drivers to stay alert, make better decisions, and ultimately protect themselves and others on the road.”
To help drivers pinpoint these risks, Meredith and the team at Everly Life conducted a study to reveal which countries demand heightened caution behind the wheel.
The study
Everly Life’s study calculated a Road Safety Index to determine the most dangerous countries for driving, using data from transportation agencies, crash reports, and public safety records. The study weighted total accidents, road traffic fatalities per capita (double weight), and pedestrian fatalities per capita, assigning each state a score from 0 to 100, where higher scores indicated greater road safety.
TABLE: THE TOP 10 MOST DANGEROUS COUNTRIES TO DRIVE IN
| Rank | State | Road Safety Index |
| 1 | Dominican Republic | 1.6 |
| 2 | South Africa | 7.6 |
| 3 | Iran | 21.0 |
| 4 | Morocco | 23.2 |
| 5 | Saudi Arabia | 23.5 |
| 6 | Vietnam | 25.6 |
| 7 | Thailand | 25.9 |
| 8 | China | 26.4 |
| 9 | Colombia | 34.2 |
| 10 | Tunisia | 35.4 |
The Top 3 Most Dangerous Countries For Driving
1. Dominican Republic (Road Safety Index: 1.6)
Located in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic ranks as the most dangerous country to drive in, with an alarmingly high road traffic fatality rate of 27.4 deaths per 100,000 people and a pedestrian fatality rate of 4.7 per 100,000.
Despite being a popular tourist destination with 8 million annual visitors, the country’s poorly maintained roads, lack of traffic enforcement, and reckless driving culture make it particularly hazardous.
Motorcycles are a significant contributor to road deaths, often weaving through traffic without helmets or proper signals. Weather conditions, especially during hurricane season, add further risks by causing flooding and road damage.
“Tourists visiting the Dominican Republic should avoid driving at night, be cautious of erratic motorcyclists, and consider using official taxis or ride-sharing services instead of renting a car,” says Meredith.
2. South Africa (Road Safety Index: 7.6)
As the second most dangerous country for driving, South Africa has one of the highest road traffic fatality rates globally, at 24.5 deaths per 100,000 people.
The country’s roads pose significant risks due to aggressive driving, inadequate infrastructure in rural areas, and high crime-related carjackings. Pedestrian fatalities are also a major concern, especially in urban centres where jaywalking is common due to poor pedestrian crossings.
With 8.48 million tourists annually, visitors should be aware that highways, particularly at night, can be dangerous due to reckless drivers and the risk of hijackings.
“Avoid driving after dark, be vigilant at traffic stops, and use secure, well-lit parking areas in major cities,” advises Meredith.
3. Iran (Road Safety Index: 21.0)
Iran ranks as the third most dangerous country for drivers, with 20.6 road traffic fatalities per 100,000 people and a pedestrian fatality rate of 4.4 per 100,000.
With 6 million tourists visiting annually, the country’s roads can be particularly hazardous due to high-speed driving, inconsistent law enforcement, and winding mountain roads with limited safety barriers.
The chaotic traffic in major cities like Tehran is characterised by aggressive lane changes, minimal regard for traffic signals, and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Additionally, Iran’s mix of heavy truck traffic, motorcycles, and outdated vehicles increases the likelihood of accidents.
“Travelers to Iran should avoid self-driving in Iran’s cities, opt for professional drivers, and be especially cautious on rural roads, where infrastructure is often lacking,” warns Meredith.
Meredith Bell, Director of Marketing at Everly Life, commented: “High fatality rates in dangerous driving regions often stem from a combination of poor infrastructure, lax enforcement of traffic laws, and risky driving behaviours. In contrast, countries with the safest roads invest heavily in well-maintained highways, pedestrian protections, and strict regulations that promote responsible driving.
“To reduce fatalities, governments should prioritise road improvements, enforce stricter penalties for violations, and educate drivers on safe practices. Smart policies and public awareness can turn even the most hazardous roads into safer travel corridors.”