When shopping for a new car, safety is usually one of the top factors consumers consider before making a purchase. However, not all vehicles offer the same level of protection.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), certain car models have significantly higher driver death rates. While automotive safety has improved over the last 20 years, the past five years have seen a troubling rise in accidents and fatalities.
iSeeCars.com analyzed data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) to identify the most dangerous vehicles on the road today. They looked at model years 2018-2022 and matched them to crashes involving at least one occupant fatality to compile this list of dangerous vehicles.
It’s important to note that these cars didn’t perform poorly in IIHS or NHTSA crash tests. In fact, most received excellent ratings. This suggests the issue may lie more with drivers and road conditions than with the vehicles themselves.
Speeding, taking high-speed turns, and distracted driving are the most common causes of these accidents.
Hyundai Venue
Fatal Accident Rate: 13.9 per billion vehicle miles, 4.9x the overall average
The Hyundai Venue, a compact SUV, faces criticism for its lightweight frame and modest crash-test scores. These attributes make it susceptible to severe damage in high-impact collisions. Its size disadvantage also contributes to higher fatality rates when it comes into contact with larger vehicles.
While its maneuverability is appealing for city driving, its lack of advanced safety features puts occupants at greater risk.
Chevrolet Corvette
Fatal Accident Rate: 13.6 per billion vehicle miles, 4.8x the overall average
The Chevrolet Corvette is a dream for speed enthusiasts, but this power comes with peril. High-performance vehicles like this often tempt drivers to push limits, making them prone to high-speed collisions.
Additionally, older Corvette models lack some of the advanced safety technologies present in newer vehicles, further increasing the danger for drivers and passengers.
Mitsubishi Mirage
Fatal Accident Rate: 13.6 per billion vehicle miles, 4.8x the overall average
Budget-friendly yet lacking in safety, the Mitsubishi Mirage exemplifies the trade-off between affordability and crashworthiness. Its lightweight construction struggles to absorb impacts effectively, leaving occupants vulnerable to serious crashes.
While the Mirage is an economical choice for urban driving, it underperforms in crash tests, scoring poorly in categories like frontal overlap protection. For those who value safety, especially on highways or during long commutes, alternative options in the same price range may offer better peace of mind.
Porsche 911
Fatal Accident Rate: 13.2 per billion vehicle miles, 4.6x the overall average
The Porsche 911’s sleek design and high performance make it a favorite among luxury car enthusiasts, but its speed capabilities can spell disaster. Drivers often push the limits of this car’s capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Although modern Porsche models are equipped with advanced safety features like traction control and adaptive cruise control, the allure of speed and agility can overshadow cautious driving. The high fatality rate serves as a reminder that even the most technologically advanced cars require responsible handling to ensure driver and passenger safety.
Honda CR-V Hybrid
Fatal Accident Rate: 13.2 per billion vehicle miles, 4.6x the overall average
The Honda CR-V Hybrid, widely regarded for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design, surprisingly ranks among vehicles with higher fatal accident rates. This hybrid SUV is lightweight compared to traditional gas-powered models, which compromises its crashworthiness in severe impacts.
Although the CR-V Hybrid offers modern safety technologies like lane-keeping assist and collision mitigation braking, its overall structural integrity falls short of some competitors in the compact SUV segment. Families considering this vehicle for its hybrid benefits should weigh these against its performance in crash tests, particularly in high-speed or multi-vehicle collisions.
Tesla Model Y
Fatal Accident Rate: 10.6 per billion vehicle miles, 3.7x the overall average
The Tesla Model Y showcases cutting-edge innovation, yet its fatal accident rate highlights the challenges of relying heavily on technology. Tesla’s Autopilot system, while revolutionary, has been linked to accidents when drivers become overly reliant on it and fail to remain alert. Additionally, its lightweight electric frame, while energy-efficient, doesn’t absorb impact as effectively as heavier vehicles.
Despite these concerns, the Model Y includes advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and has a strong crash-test record in many scenarios. However, the reliance on driver attentiveness and the risks posed by its unique build require users to exercise caution, particularly in unpredictable driving environments.
Mitsubishi Mirage G4
Fatal Accident Rate: 10.1 per billion vehicle miles, 3.6x the overall average
The Mitsubishi Mirage G4, the sedan version of the Mirage, shares many of its sibling’s weaknesses. Its fatal accident rate underscores the safety concerns associated with smaller, budget-oriented cars. Its lightweight design and basic crash protection make it ill-equipped to handle high-speed or multi-vehicle collisions.
While it offers affordability, this compact car struggles to compete with larger and more fortified options on the road.
Buick Encore GX
Fatal Accident Rate: 9.8 per billion vehicle miles, 3.4x the overall average
Compact SUVs like the Buick Encore GX are efficient for city commutes but lack the structural integrity of larger vehicles. This puts them at a disadvantage in high-impact collisions.
Although the Encore GX includes advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, its crash performance still lags behind competitors in its class.
Kia Forte
Fatal Accident Rate: 8.1 per billion vehicle miles, 2.9x the overall average
While affordable and stylish, the Kia Forte lacks many advanced safety features found in its competitors. The Forte’s smaller size and lack of cutting-edge safety technologies reduce its ability to protect occupants in severe crashes.
For those seeking an affordable sedan with better occupant protection, alternatives with more robust safety systems may be worth exploring.
Buick Envision
Fatal Accident Rate: 8.0 per billion vehicle miles, 2.8x the overall average
The Buick Envision blends luxury with compact SUV convenience, but its safety record is less impressive. Crash data indicates that it doesn’t provide adequate protection in severe accidents, particularly for rear passengers.
For those prioritizing safety, there are other luxury SUVs in the same price range that offer superior structural integrity and safety technology.
Kia Soul
Fatal Accident Rate: 7.3 per billion vehicle miles, 2.6x the overall average
The Kia Soul stands out for its quirky design and compact build, but these features come at the cost of crash protection. Its boxy shape and lighter structure make it vulnerable in high-impact collisions, particularly with larger vehicles.
While it offers good fuel efficiency and an affordable price tag, safety-conscious buyers may want to look at alternatives with better crash-test scores and advanced safety features.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Fatal Accident Rate: 7.3 per billion vehicle miles, 2.6x the overall average
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a favorite among eco-conscious drivers, but its focus on fuel efficiency comes at the expense of crashworthiness. The lightweight construction that aids fuel economy also reduces its ability to absorb impact in collisions.
Although it boasts Toyota’s signature reliability, this hybrid sedan might not be the safest option for highway driving or long commutes where accidents are more likely.
Chevrolet Camaro
Fatal Accident Rate: 7.3 per billion vehicle miles, 2.6x the overall average
The Chevrolet Camaro is a quintessential muscle car, built for speed and power. However, its aggressive design and performance capabilities often encourage risky driving behavior, leading to more accidents.
While it’s an exhilarating ride for enthusiasts, the Camaro’s safety profile doesn’t match its thrilling aesthetics, making it a hazardous choice for less experienced drivers.
Nissan Versa
Fatal Accident Rate: 7.2 per billion vehicle miles, 2.5x the overall average
The Nissan Versa is often chosen for its affordability and practicality, especially by first-time drivers. Unfortunately, its low price is partly due to compromises in safety features. Its small size and weaker crash-test performance make it less protective in collisions.
For buyers seeking a budget-friendly sedan, the Versa might be tempting, but it’s worth considering alternatives with better safety ratings.
Kia K5
Fatal Accident Rate: 7.1 per billion vehicle miles, 2.5x the overall average
Marketed as a sporty mid-size sedan, the Kia K5 offers a stylish design but falls short in terms of safety. Its crash-test scores lag behind those of its competitors, and it lacks some of the advanced safety technologies found in similar vehicles.
While it appeals to younger drivers with its sleek looks, safety-conscious buyers might find better options in the same price range.
Kia Seltos
Fatal Accident Rate: 6.8 per billion vehicle miles, 2.4x the overall average
The Kia Seltos, a compact SUV, is popular among younger drivers for its modern design and affordability. However, its lightweight frame and smaller size make it less crash-resistant, especially in collisions with larger vehicles.
Families and individuals prioritizing safety might want to consider midsize SUVs with more robust safety features and better crash-test ratings.
Ford Bronco
Fatal Accident Rate: 6.6 per billion vehicle miles, 2.3x the overall average
The Ford Bronco is beloved for its off-road capabilities and rugged design, but these features come with risks. Its high center of gravity increases the likelihood of rollovers, particularly on uneven terrain.
While it excels in adventure settings, drivers must exercise caution, especially during high-speed or sharp turns that can destabilize the vehicle.
Ford Bronco Sport
Fatal Accident Rate: 6.2 per billion vehicle miles, 2.2x the overall average
A smaller sibling of the full-size Bronco, the Bronco Sport shares similar vulnerabilities, including a higher rollover risk and reduced crash protection compared to larger SUVs. Its compact build offers less durability in high-speed collisions.
Off-road enthusiasts may find it appealing, but its safety limitations on highways and in severe accidents are worth noting.
Dodge Charger
Fatal Accident Rate: 6.1 per billion vehicle miles, 2.1x the overall average
The Dodge Charger, with its powerful engine and bold design, is a popular choice among muscle car fans. However, its performance capabilities often tempt drivers into high-speed driving, increasing accident risks.
Though equipped with some safety features, the Charger’s allure as a performance car often overshadows its safety concerns, making it a riskier choice for everyday use.
Toyota Prius
Fatal Accident Rate: 5.9 per billion vehicle miles, 2.1x the overall average
Renowned for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design, the Toyota Prius sacrifices some safety features to achieve its lightweight build. This makes it less durable in high-impact collisions.
For those prioritizing safety, it’s essential to weigh the Prius’s environmental benefits against its crash-test performance. On a positive note, the Prius makes our list of cars most likely to hit 250K miles.
Tesla Model S
Fatal Accident Rate: 5.8 per billion vehicle miles, 2.0x the overall average
The Tesla Model S is a luxury EV with cutting-edge technology, but its high speeds and reliance on autopilot features can increase accident risks. Overconfidence in these technologies often leads to driver inattention, resulting in preventable collisions.
While its innovative design is a draw, drivers must remain vigilant and avoid over-relying on its automated systems.
INFINITI Q50
Fatal Accident Rate: 5.8 per billion vehicle miles, 2.0x the overall average
The INFINITI Q50 is a luxury sedan with an emphasis on aesthetics and comfort. However, its crash-test results show it doesn’t provide the same level of protection as other vehicles in its class.
While it offers a premium driving experience, safety-minded buyers might prefer competitors with better crash-test ratings and safety features.
Toyota Venza
Fatal Accident Rate: 5.6 per billion vehicle miles, 2.0x the overall average
The Toyota Venza’s hybrid design emphasizes fuel efficiency and style, but it doesn’t excel in crash protection. Its lighter build reduces its ability to shield occupants effectively during severe accidents.
Despite its sleek appearance and eco-friendly performance, the Venza may not be the best choice for drivers prioritizing safety in their next vehicle.
Many of the cars on this list are popular for their affordability, style, or performance, but their safety shortcomings highlight hidden risks.
When shopping for your next car, don’t focus solely on looks or price—choose a vehicle that prioritizes safety for you and your passengers. And of course, always drive safe!
Source: iSeeCars
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