2009 America's Best Drivers report

NORTHBROOK, Illinois - Toledo drivers are in the top half of the county when it comes to safe driving, according to the 2009 Allstate "America's Best Driver Report."

Drivers from Sioux Falls, S.D. maintained their status as the safest driving city in this year's report for the fourth consecutive year, while Alexandria, VA. is recognized as "America's Most Improved Driving City."

The Allstate Insurance Company (NYSE: ALL) today released its fifth annual "Allstate America's Best Drivers Report™." The report ranks America's 200 largest cities in terms of car collision frequency to identify which cities have the safest drivers according to Allstate data.

This year's Top 10:

• 1. Sioux Falls, S.D.
• 2. Fort Collins, Colo.
• 3. Chattanooga, Tenn.
• 4. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
• 5. Knoxville, Tenn.
• 6. Fort Wayne, Ind.
• 7. Lexington-Fayette, Ky.
• 8. Eugene, Ore.
• 9. Boise, Idaho
• 10. Colorado Springs, Colo.

Ohio and the surrounding area had mixed results:

• 12. Dayton, Oh.
• 18. Akron, Oh.
• 29. Cleveland, Oh.
• 62. Cincinnati, Oh.
• 68. Toledo, Oh.
• 87. Columbus, Oh.
• 121. Detroit, Mi.

Washington D.C. finished at the bottom of list at 193

Auto crashes in general have declined over the last few years, but crash fatalities still average around an alarming 40,000 every year despite technological advances according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"Human error is the biggest cause of accidents. It is vital for us to educate drivers across the country on the importance of being tolerant and attentive behind the wheel," said Roche.

Allstate offers the following safe driving tips drivers should consider:

• Minimize distractions - Engaging in any other activity while driving - talking on your cell phone, text messaging, changing a radio station, putting on makeup - is a distraction.
• Be aware of road conditions - Ice, snow, fog, rain - all of these weather conditions require extra caution and slower speeds.
• Leave a safe distance between your car and others around you - Maintain at least one car length space between your car and the vehicle in front of you for every 10 miles per hour of speed.
• Steer clear of road rage - Reduce stress on the road by allowing plenty of time for travel, planning your route in advance, and altering your schedule or route to avoid congested roads. Remember not to challenge aggressive drivers and stay as far away from them as possible.
• Maintenance matters - Ultimately, safety also depends on the maintenance of one's car. Ensure that car brakes, exhaust system, tires, lights, battery, and hoses are in good working order.