Is it True That Women Can’t Drive Well?
From the early struggles to gain acceptance behind the wheel to becoming an integral part of the driving populace, women have traversed a path marked by milestones in transportation and gender equality.
Today, women drivers constitute a substantial percentage of licensed drivers nationwide, contributing dynamically to various industries, from transportation services to professional racing circuits. They share the responsibility of driving, but can women drive well?
Key Women Driving Statistics in the U.S.
- The U.S. had around 119 million licensed female drivers, slightly outnumbering the 115.2 million male driving licenses in 2022, making females the majority of licensed drivers. [1]
- According to statistics, women (32%) are better drivers than men (14%), with the lower rate of traffic fatalities involving female drivers possibly stemming from women employing cautionary measures more frequently than men. [2]
- The number of drivers involved in fatal crashes in the U.S. is significantly higher for males than for females. Data indicates that female drivers are involved in fatal crashes each year at rates between 13,000 and 15,000, while male drivers face figures ranging from 30,000 to 45,000. [3]
- In 2020, 22% of male drivers in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of at least 0.08, compared to only 16% of female drivers. [5]
- Men have a crash rate of 2.1 per 100 million miles traveled, while women have a rate of 1.3. This means men are 61% more likely to be involved in an accident than women. [5]
- A 2019 survey indicated that men were more likely to fall asleep at the wheel, with 32.9% reporting such incidents, in contrast to 22.2% of women. [5]
- Women account for 9.5% of commercial vehicle drivers in the U.S. [6]
Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Driving
Historically entrenched stereotypes regarding driving abilities based on gender have been challenged and redefined by the increasing representation of women in various driving roles.
From professional truck drivers to Formula racing champions, women have shattered these stereotypes, showcasing their expertise, skill, and competence behind the wheel. Initiatives promoting inclusivity and equality have played a pivotal role in challenging these stereotypes.
Programs encouraging young girls to explore careers in automotive engineering, motorsports, or commercial driving have been instrumental in debunking the myth that driving prowess is inherently gender-specific.
Challenges of Women Drivers in the U.S.
Issues like gender-based discrimination or safety concerns, particularly about night driving or driving in certain areas, remain prevalent. Here are some challenges that women drivers face:
- Stereotypes regarding women’s driving abilities persist, leading to biases and discrimination in various driving contexts, from everyday road interactions to professional driving careers.
- The notion that women are dangerous behind the wheel persists subtly, affecting their confidence and opportunities within driving-related professions.
- Limited representation in commercial trucking or professional racing industries can hinder mentorship opportunities and access to networks essential for career advancement.
Likelihood of Women Being Involved in an Accident
Statistically, women are involved in fewer accidents compared to men. However, the risk of accidents for women isn’t solely dictated by gender but is influenced by various factors, including driving behaviors, frequency of driving, and individual circumstances.
Studies have suggested that, on average, men tend to drive more miles than women and are more likely to engage in aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding or reckless driving, which can increase their likelihood of deadly accidents. [4]
Conversely, women often display more cautious driving habits, such as adherence to speed limits and greater compliance with traffic rules, which can contribute to a lower accident rate.
Various factors, including distracted driving, impairment due to alcohol or drugs, and other external factors like road conditions or weather, can lead to accidents regardless of gender.
If you or a loved one has been in a motor vehicle accident, contact Goldberg & Loren’s auto accident attorneys to pursue compensation for damages.
Sources:
[1] Statista. (2024, November 28). Number of licensed drivers in the United States by gender 2021-2022. https://www.statista.com/statistics/198017/total-number-of-us-licensed-drivers-in-2009-by-gender/
[2] Carmichael, J. (2016, November 12). Gender Dependent Behavior Differences Toward Traffic Regulations and Cautious Driving. ResearchGate. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.13066.98247
[3] Statista. (2023, November 17). Drivers involved in fatal crashes in U.S. road traffic by sex 1996-2021. https://www.statista.com/statistics/192074/drivers-in-fatal-crashes-in-us-road-traffic-by-gender-since-1992/
[4] Fatality Facts 2021: Males and females. (n.d.). IIHS-HLDI Crash Testing and Highway Safety. https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/males-and-females
[5] Arthur, J. L. (2025, January 5). Male Vs Female Driving Statistics [2024]: Who’s Safer? LookupAPlate. https://www.lookupaplate.com/blog/men-vs-female-driving-statistics/
[6] Staff, L. L. (2024, October 25). Percentage of women drivers hits 5-year low, new data shows. Land Line. https://landline.media/percentage-of-women-drivers-hits-5-year-low-new-data-shows/
