Everyone has heard the stereotype; so-called Asians are supposedly the worst drivers in America. But is this true? Some will say, yes and some will say there are bad drivers in every group. Lets examine the statistics (compiled by CDC, NHCS, and NHTSA) http://www.watchtheroad.org/809956.pdf http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/alcohol/Archive/ethnicity/ethnicity.html Table 1. MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES AS A CAUSE OF DEATH Age-adjusted death rates Caucasian American* Males 21.7 Females 9.8 African American Males 24.3 Females 9.4 Native American Males 42.6 Females 31.5 Asian Americans - Pacific Islander Americans Males 12.7 Females 7.6 Hispanic American Males 24.2 Females 8.1 Turns out, Asian Americans are the least likely to die in a motor vehicle related fatality. Upon further inspection, it is shown that a large bulk of fatalities involving API are non-driver deaths; i.e pedestrians and passengers. When you include age-adjusted rates and especially deaths per billion miles traveled, the Asian rate is even lower. The verdict? You are much less likely to die around Asian drivers (passenger or pedestrian) than whites, blacks, or Hispanics. An Asian driver is much less likely to get into, or cause, a traffic accident. It is also shown that API are less likely to drink while driving, and are more likely to be properly restrained. The reason why this data is important is because it sheds light on a harmful stereotype. The notion that Asians are bad drivers predisposes Asian drivers to unfair treatment on the road, which is a major flashpoint and source of conflict between individuals. It also shows how popular opinion and media representations can warp the public's perception of the truth so drastically that the absolute best drivers are perceived as the worst. Keep driving safe
I didn't know I was supposed to discriminate against Asian drivers. Thanks. Whoever pokes along below the speed limit, in the fast lane, is subject to some downed eyebrows, though. I don't know why people do this, be it deliberate or overly cautious....who knows?
BTW, women are perceived to be better drivers than men. I'll concede that maybe they are more law abiding on average, and get into less trouble as a result, but as far as controlling a car.....men can handle a car better, overall.
Sure they're walking away from the crashes but what about the other guy? But seriously, this doesn't prove or disprove anything.
No, it shows they don't die as much in fatal car accidents. Just because you die in a fatal car accident doesn't mean you're an unsafe driver. What about fender benders, non fatal accidents, etc? Like I said, you can't make too many assumptions from this study outside of, they don't die as much in car accidents.
but who would you rather have on the road a) a marginal driver who drives within their ability and avoids accidents b) a good driver who pushes the limits and causes accidents I would choose A every day because that's the choice where more people come home alive.
You guys are making tons of assumptions from this study. Men drive more, therefore their insurance is higher, and they have a higher probability of getting in crashes. I thought everyone learned that in Health class.
What do those percents mean? nearly half of all native americans will die in a car crash ? shocking if true
This study is skewed because it doesn't factor in socio economic status. I bet if income was taken into account these differences would disappear to a large extent.
Yeah but what if you're being chased by the Triads down the streets of L.A. and you need to get a kidney to the President's sick daughter in time?!?!?! I bet you'll choose B then! I bet you will!!!
I've heard the stereotype about Asians being bad drivers, but if I had to guess, I'd assume they were safer than average. That's what I was thinking. Wealthier people have safer cars. And lpbman is right, the alcohol-use needs to be included here. I guess it is in the study, since they say Asians drink and drive less.
