‘Dangerous Driving Behaviors’ Blamed for Rise in Car Crash Deaths During Pandemic in California

Researchers found pandemic shutdowns led to less congested roads, attracting speeders and reckless drivers—and starting a new trend.

Ventura County Sheriff's Office personnel investigate the scene of a deadly car crash in Thousand Oaks, Calif., on April 18, 2023. Juan Carlo/Ventura County Star via AP

Data show more California drivers died from car crashes in 2022 compared with pre-pandemic levels of 2018, a trend researchers said shows fewer drivers on the road doesn’t necessarily mean fewer fatal accidents.

According to the June report by Consumer Affairs—a website that specializes in consumer news—such deaths rose by 17 percent in 2022 versus 2018 despite pandemic slowdowns on commuting and travel and the state’s population decreasing.