Roadtripping certainly is a worthwhile experience, allowing you to see the world one mile at a time, where you can pull over for a quick bite at a local restaurant, experience a viewpoint, or just take the slow lane to your destination. However, some places in the U.S. are more welcoming than others to easy drivers.
In August, Casino.ca released its data on the most polite states and territories in the U.S. and Canada, revealing who’s got the best and worst attitudes toward their fellow drivers. It came to its conclusion after surveying residents from both North American countries, and asking questions about manners, tipping, and driving etiquette. The answers were then placed in a weighted scoring system for a final “politeness score” out of 100. And it appears travelers should be extra cautious when driving through Massachusetts, which ranked as the rudest state for driving.
“Massachusetts tops the list for road rage, scoring 33 out of 100 on the politeness index,” the findings revealed. “Here, 61 percent admit to swearing, honking, or being vocal at other drivers, and 42 percent often experience road rage.”
Minnesota followed in a close second, also scoring 33, but ranked a bit higher as just 44 percent of residents said they “get vocal with other drivers, and 33 percent would tailgate.” Rounding out the bottom of the list is Kansas, which came in as the third rudest with a score of 35. “In Kansas, 50 percent find themselves being vocal, honking, or swearing at other drivers, and the same percentage sometimes experience road rage.”
Additionally, drivers may want to be cautious of Oregon, too, as it ranked as the overall rudest state with a score of 21. The findings noted, “Only 44 percent of Oregonians say ‘bless you’ when a stranger sneezes. Half admit to swearing, honking, or getting vocal at other drivers.”
On the flip side, if you’re looking for plenty of pleasantries and friendly smiles on the road, drive right through Arizona, which scored an impressive 71. “In Arizona, 39 percent of residents ‘never’ experience road rage, and 81 percent don’t swear, get vocal, or honk at other drivers,” the team stated. “Additionally, 92 percent never tailgate slow drivers, and 75 percent believe it’s important to be considerate on the road.”
Also at the top is Louisiana in second, followed closely by Colorado, where everyone promises to “prioritize politeness,” which, as a traveler, you should always make sure to do, too.
See the full rankings at casino.ca.