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Sarasota County Joins Manatee, Davidson, Collier, Fresno, Montgomery and More US Counties Most Dangerous Counties to Drive in During New Year’s, Latest Update is Here
Published on
December 31, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Sarasota County has officially joined the list of the most dangerous counties to drive in during New Year’s, alongside Manatee, Davidson, Collier, Fresno, Montgomery, and several other high-risk areas.
This year’s latest update reveals alarming statistics about driving safety during one of the busiest and most celebratory times of the year. Sarasota County, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant communities, now ranks among the counties where driving conditions are the most hazardous due to increased traffic, alcohol consumption, and festive celebrations.
With New Year’s being one of the most dangerous times to be on the road, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed about the risks associated with driving in these high-risk counties. Counties like Manatee, Davidson, Collier, and others have been highlighted for their notorious traffic accidents during the holiday season. If you’re planning to travel, you’ll want to read this critical update on Sarasota County and other dangerous counties to drive in during New Year’s. Stay prepared and ensure your safety with these latest insights.
The countdown to New Year’s brings celebrations, but it also brings danger on the roads. Sarasota County, along with Manatee, Davidson, Collier, Fresno, and Montgomery, has been named among the most dangerous counties to drive in during New Year’s. These counties, notorious for their high number of traffic accidents, are particularly risky during the holiday period when impaired driving, distractions, and exhaustion are at their peak.
As millions of Americans hit the road for holiday festivities, the dangers of driving in these counties rise sharply. From alcohol-related crashes to dangerous weather conditions, Sarasota, Manatee, and other counties are hotspots for risky travel. These counties make up some of the deadliest regions to drive in during New Year’s, and the latest update sheds light on just how severe the risks are. If you plan to drive in Sarasota County, Manatee County, or any of the other counties mentioned, it’s crucial to take extra precautions.
This article dives deep into why Sarasota County, Manatee, Davidson, Collier, Fresno, Montgomery, and other counties are so dangerous during New Year’s and offers vital tips to keep you safe. Read on to learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Most Dangerous Counties to Drive During New Year’s—Are You Safe?
The New Year’s holiday is a time for celebration, but it’s also one of the most perilous times to be behind the wheel. With the combination of alcohol consumption, distractions, and exhausted drivers, the roads can turn deadly. And while we often think of New Year’s accidents happening in major cities, some counties are far more dangerous than others. Brace yourself, because what follows might shock you—Sarasota, Manatee, and Davidson are just a few of the counties where driving during New Year’s is a terrifying gamble.
Sarasota County, FL—The Road to Tragedy
Sarasota County, Florida, often considered a tranquil, picturesque area, becomes a nightmare for drivers during the New Year’s period. Statistics show that this county has one of the highest rates of fatal accidents during the holiday season. This isn’t just about the drivers themselves; it’s about the partygoers driving under the influence, often in a rush to reach a celebration. The temptation to drive after drinking can be fatal, especially when you consider that alcohol-related accidents skyrocket during this time. This county is a serious red flag for anyone planning to get behind the wheel. And while rideshare services might seem like a solution, they might not be enough to handle the influx of impaired drivers.
Manatee County, FL—Where the Holidays Can Turn Deadly
Just a short drive from Sarasota, Manatee County shares a similar fate. The roads here become chaos, especially in the late-night hours. Drunk drivers, coupled with distracted driving, make this area a hotspot for New Year’s accidents. The combination of impaired judgment and the holiday rush makes these roads more dangerous than ever. Manatee County sees a significant uptick in road fatalities, with many of these deaths preventable if drivers took the proper precautions. If you’re heading to the area, consider alternatives like ridesharing or public transportation. Anything to avoid getting behind the wheel.
Davidson County, TN—A Hazardous Night Out in Nashville
While most people think of Nashville as the city of country music and honky-tonk bars, Davidson County becomes one of the most dangerous places to drive in Tennessee during New Year’s. Despite the excitement and festivities, impaired driving increases significantly in this county. Whether it’s intoxicated partygoers or distracted tourists, the risk of accidents escalates dramatically as the night wears on. But it’s not just about alcohol—fatigue also plays a major role. The long hours of partying, combined with the late-night drives, lead to more drivers on the road who aren’t paying attention. This cocktail of risks makes Davidson County a terrifying place to be behind the wheel after midnight.
Collier County, FL—The Deadly Roads of Paradise
Often seen as a retirement haven, Collier County is a popular destination for snowbirds during the winter months. But on New Year’s, this county’s roads become particularly hazardous. Drivers unfamiliar with the area and those under the influence of alcohol or drugs are a deadly combination. The holiday season, especially New Year’s Eve, sees an influx of cars on the road, and with it, a rise in accidents. Collier County’s reputation as one of the most dangerous places to drive during the New Year is well-earned, with authorities constantly urging visitors and residents to take extra care on the roads.
Fresno County, CA—Where New Year’s Spells Danger
Fresno County in California is another area that sees its fair share of traffic-related fatalities during the New Year’s period. With a combination of high-speed driving and alcohol consumption, Fresno’s roads become a battlefield. The rural stretches of highway that wind through this area are particularly dangerous as drivers often push their cars to the limit, exacerbating the risk. The danger doesn’t only come from the drivers, either—poor visibility due to fog or rain adds an extra layer of risk. So, if you plan to visit Fresno County, be cautious and avoid driving during peak hours, especially after the midnight rush.
Montgomery County, OH—A Silent Killer
Montgomery County, Ohio, particularly the city of Dayton, faces its own set of challenges when it comes to road safety during New Year’s. The county has seen a dramatic increase in accidents caused by drunk driving, with many of these accidents happening in the late hours. On top of that, many residents and visitors are not aware of the potential dangers of winter weather, which can worsen road conditions. With icy patches on roads and freezing temperatures, Montgomery County turns into a hazardous driving zone. This makes it a place you’d want to avoid if you plan to travel this holiday season.
Volusia County, FL—Speeding Into Danger
Known for its iconic Daytona Beach, Volusia County is a popular destination for tourists during the New Year’s period. However, the combination of a high volume of vehicles and speeding drivers can make these roads some of the most dangerous in Florida. Drivers under the influence and the high speed at which they travel are a deadly mix. When the clock strikes midnight, the risks increase exponentially. It’s important to note that traffic accidents are not limited to just the highways—local streets and even residential areas are often the site of deadly crashes. Make sure to stay off the roads and find other transportation options if you’re in the area.
Shelby County, TN—A Tragic Toll of Alcohol and Distractions
Shelby County, home to Memphis, has long struggled with road safety issues, and New Year’s Eve amplifies these risks. Drunk driving, distracted driving, and a general sense of recklessness plague the streets of Memphis during the holiday period. Despite the efforts of law enforcement to curb these dangerous habits, the statistics show a rise in road fatalities. This is particularly concerning as many of the crashes occur during the night when most people are heading home after a night of partying. The risks of driving here are high, and those who choose to get behind the wheel might be putting their lives in jeopardy.
DeKalb County, GA—An Unforgiving New Year’s Nightmare
DeKalb County in Georgia, part of the greater Atlanta area, faces a dangerous driving season during New Year’s. With the heavy flow of traffic and the lack of focus on the road, this county is another hotspot for fatal accidents. From intoxicated drivers to fatigued commuters, the threats are many. New Year’s is a time when people are eager to reach their destination but often ignore the dangers of driving under unsafe conditions. This lack of caution can result in deadly crashes, making DeKalb County a high-risk location for road travel during the holiday period.
Solano County, CA—One of California’s Deadliest
Solano County, located in Northern California, becomes one of the most dangerous counties to drive in during New Year’s. A perfect storm of high traffic volume, inclement weather, and distracted drivers increases the risks exponentially. As drivers are distracted by celebrations or the alcohol they’ve consumed, Solano County sees an uptick in accidents. These accidents are often compounded by bad weather conditions, such as rain or fog, which make it even harder to navigate the roads. If you plan to be in this area during New Year’s, take extreme caution and avoid driving if possible.
CarInsurance.com’s Safety Tips for Driving During New Year’s
Don’t Drive Under the Influence: Always plan ahead—arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or take public transport. Many cities offer free transportation to keep you safe.
Drive Distraction-Free: Texting or checking messages takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. It’s not worth the risk—keep your focus on the road.
Avoid Peak Travel Times: The most dangerous time to travel is between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. If you can, avoid driving during these hours to minimize risk.
Leave Plenty of Space: Always maintain a safe distance between your car and others. You can’t predict how other drivers will act, so giving yourself room is the smartest choice.
Credit: CarInsurance
