10 Most Dangerous Countries to Drive In
Santo Domingo road in Dominican Republic
Photo: David Kirsch via CC
Though driving is safer than it has been in the past, thanks in most part to terrific safety technologies and better engineering, the act of driving itself can still be dangerous. Every time you get behind the wheel of your car, you’re putting your life at risk.
While driving can be dangerous no matter the country you are driving in, a study has discovered the 10 countries that you should probably think twice about driving in. Ranging from the jungles of Africa to tourist destinations located off the coast of the United States, the most dangerous countries to drive in are diverse. Check out the results below!
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Dangerous Drives: #10–#6
10. Iraq
Though Iraq is currently known for its civil unrest, this Middle Eastern country is also known for its terrible driving. With an average of 32 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, Iraq has squeaked into our top ten list with ease.
9. Dominican Republic
When you think of the Dominican Republic, it’s likely you think of it as a fun, beautiful location for your next vacation. Before you decide to go to this Caribbean island, though, consider the fact that, like Malawi, it averages 32 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents.
8. Malawi
This landlocked country is located in the southeast region of Africa. Formerly known as Nyasaland, it is known as “The Warm Heart of Africa.” While the heart of Africa might beat strong, it averages 32 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, earning it a spot on our list of the most dangerous countries to drive in.
7. Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is located in the center of Africa and has an estimated population of 77,433,744 people. With this high population, combined with the civil unrest currently occurring throughout the country, it comes as no surprise that this African country has earned a spot on our list with an average of 34 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents.
6. Venezuela
Venezuela is the only country on this list from South America and is known for its extremely diverse climates. Ranging from the heights of the Andes Mountains to the humidity of the Amazon Basin, this South American country also averages 35 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, earning itself a solid spot in the middle of this list.
Crowded Bangkok traffic in Thailand
Photo: David McKelvey via CC
Dangerous Drives: #5–#1
5. Swaziland
Located in Southern Africa, Swaziland isn’t as well known as other countries on this list of the ten most dangerous countries to drive in. With its average of 36 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, though, this African country has made a lasting impression.
4. Sudan
Sudan has experienced a long period of political and social unrest. Located in Africa, just south of Egypt, Sudan is known as being the third largest country in Africa, while also averaging 36 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents.
3. Iran
This Middle Eastern country is known for being home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world. While it has a rich history, it also has an average of 38 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents. If you find yourself in Iran, it might be a good idea to avoid getting behind the steering wheel.
2. Thailand
As a popular tourist destination in Asia, Thailand is known for its beautiful tropical beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque royal palaces. This gorgeous holiday retreat experiences 44 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, though, making it the second least-safe country to drive in.
1. Namibia
The Republic of Namibia, which is located in southern Africa along the Atlantic Ocean, reported a population of 2,113,077 in the 2011 census. According to the study, Namibia averaged 45 traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents, making it the most dangerous country to drive in.
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