Study after study come out to validate the dismal driving conditions prevalent in Texas. Whether attributed to reckless drivers, congested roads, or hazardous routes, navigating the streets of Texas is no cake walk.
Recently, Forbes Advisor undertook a comprehensive analysis, evaluating the driving conditions across the 47 most populous cities in the United States to determine the worst cities to drive in. The study, which encompassed 15 metrics across four pivotal categories—driving experience, car ownership expenses, safety, and vehicle upkeep—identified four Texan cities among the worst for drivers.
Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin emerged as the Texas cities garnering unfavorable rankings in the study. Houston, in particular, secured the title of the worst city for driving in Texas and claimed the fourth position nationwide.
Contributing to its dismal performance were deficiencies in available car repair facilities. Notably, Houston ranked 12th overall for driving experience, characterized by lengthy average commute times, substantial hours spent in traffic (74 annually), and sluggish downtown speeds.
Dallas, too, found itself among the top 10 worst cities for driving in the U.S., landing at the ninth spot. Factors attributing to its poor ranking encompassed a high incidence of fatal accidents, exorbitant annual car insurance premiums, and inefficient commute times.
Conversely, El Paso, Texas, ranked as the third best city to drive in the country. Its commendable standing was attributed to minimal traffic congestion, resulting in the second-lowest expenditure on congestion-related fuel consumption.
As for the absolute worst city to drive in the country, the study found Oakland, California, to be the worst due to elevated gas prices, protracted commute durations, and a notable frequency of fatal car accidents.