Preventable accidents are the third highest cause of death in the United States.
The National Safety Council (NSC) announces its 2019 list of states lowest and highest rates of unintentional, preventable deaths, which include poisonings – largely from drug overdoses – car crashes and falls.
Poisonings, which include drug overdoses, are the top contributor to high mortality rates in all of the top 10 states. Motor vehicle accidents and falls also are leading causes.
“Someone dies every three minutes in the United States because of something we know how to prevent,” said Lorraine M. Martin, NSC president and CEO. “Understanding the leading causes of preventable death in your state allows you to advocate for better policies and protections, so all residents can lead their best, fullest lives.”
While California has the lowest rate of preventable death at 35.0 per 100,000 residents, here are 10 states that rank at the top for unintentional fatalities.