Have you ever wondered which car makes are involved in the most accidents? This answer is important whether you are shopping for a new vehicle or want to know what’s happening on the roads.
The truth is that many factors come into play, like how people drive those cars, where they drive, and even the kinds of trips they tend to take.
Some recent studies have tried to answer this question, and the results might surprise you.
What the Data Says About Car Makes and Accidents
Data has found that the fatal accident rates of Tesla vehicles are higher than any other car brand’s highest fatal accident rates. That might be shocking because Tesla markets itself as a leader in advanced technology and safety.
Why is this happening?
Tesla cars are fast and high-tech. However, they are often driven by people who love the thrill of high performance. Along with features like autopilot, some drivers might over-rely on that, and that can lead to overconfidence on the road. In some cases, drivers might misunderstand what autopilot can and cannot do. As a result, that can lead to accidents that could have been avoided with more attention to the road.
But Tesla isn’t the only brand under the microscope. According to a MotorTrend article, brands with higher-than-average accident rates, such as:
- Kia
- Buick
- Dodge
- Hyundai
Why Certain Brands Are More Accident-Prone
In many cases, it comes down to the type of people driving those cars and how they use them. For example, Kia and Hyundai brands are popular with younger drivers and first-time car buyers. This is because they are affordable and reliable. Unfortunately, motor vehicle traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for 15- to 20-year-olds per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Dodge is a brand known for its muscle cars, like the Challenger and Charger. These vehicles appeal to those who enjoy power and speed. However, they are also often involved in aggressive driving and speeding-related crashes.
While traditionally associated with older drivers, Buicks are often found in rural areas. These spaces have higher speeds and less traffic enforcement, which can lead to more severe accidents.
What These Numbers Don’t Tell You
With any study, you will want to take these statistics with a grain of salt. Just because a car make or model is involved in more accidents does not mean it is unsafe. Often, these numbers reflect how and where the vehicles are driven rather than the vehicles themselves.
Remember that modern cars are equipped with incredible safety features. These can include everything from automatic emergency braking to lane-keeping assist. This technology is designed to prevent accidents, but it’s not foolproof.
At the end of the day, the driver, not the car, plays the biggest role in preventing accidents. Distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving remain the leading causes of crashes, no matter what car you drive.
Staying Safe on the Road
What can you do to avoid becoming involved in a car accident? First, you always want to drive responsibly. It might sound easy, but staying focused, following speed limits, and avoiding distractions like your phone can make a huge difference.
If you’re shopping for a new car, you may want to research its safety ratings and crash-test results. Organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offer detailed safety evaluations for nearly every make and model.
However, even when you do everything right, you can still be involved in a crash. Unfortunately, some drivers are not cautious or responsible on the road. They may put others at risk by acting negligently. In these scenarios, it doesn’t matter the type of vehicle that you’re driving. You just hope that the safety features can keep you protected in an accident.
Everyone Needs to Engage in Safe Driving Practices
While some car brands and models are involved in more accidents than others, the reasons extend beyond the vehicle.
Whether driving a Tesla, a Kia, or a Ford, the best way to stay safe is to focus on the road, drive responsibly, and know your vehicle’s limits.
No car is “accident-proof.” And sometimes, other driver behaviors can cause these incidents. If you or a loved one have been affected in a car crash, McCoy & Hiestand, PLC can help you determine your options.
