August ranks as second deadliest month for crashes

Last updated: August 9, 2026

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — August ranks 2nd most dangerous month in Mississippi for fatal road
crashes, averaging 62.8 fatal incidents, according to a new 50-state analysis by Blakeley Law Firm. Mississippi averages 134.8 fatal motor vehicle accidents annually, with October the deadliest at 65.2 and February the safest at 48.2.

The study, conducted by Blakeley Law Firm, analyzed average annual fatal incidents between 2020 and 2024 across all 50 states to identify the most dangerous months and seasons for fatal wrecks in America. By examining monthly and seasonal patterns in fatal data, the study highlights when roadway risks are highest and reveals how crash trends vary across different parts of the country throughout the year.

Mississippi’s August toll of 62.8 ranks 22nd nationally, behind neighboring Tennessee (111.0, 10th), Alabama (72.0, 19th), and Louisiana (65.6, 20th), with only Arkansas (56.4, 26th) recording fewer among
neighboring states.

October ranks as the deadliest month for fatal road wrecks in Mississippi, averaging 65.2 per year. August and September follow closely with 62.8 and 62.4 crashes, highlighting elevated roadway risks during the late summer and early fall travel season. February records the fewest fatal crashes in Mississippi, averaging 48.2 crashes annually, 17.0 fewer than October.

Mississippi Fatal Road Crashes by Month: 1-October; 65.2, 2-August, 62.8; 3-September 62.4; 4-May 58.6; 5-November, 58.6.

The study analyzed average annual fatal road crashes between 2020 and 2024 across all 50 states to identify the most dangerous months and seasons for fatal crashes in America. By examining monthly and seasonal patterns in fatal crash data, the study highlights when roadway risks are highest and reveals how crash trends vary across different parts of the country throughout the year.