Some Cars are Deadlier than Others

More than 40,000 people died in traffic accidents in the US in the most recent year reported. The exact estimate varies depending on the source–the National Safety Council puts the final count at more than 44,000. That’s a slight drop from the previous year, but still a significant jump when you look back further. 10 years ago, the total number of traffic fatalities for the year was 32,675. 

Most people are aware that motor vehicle accident fatalities have been on the rise for the past several years, though there are occasional year-over-year dips. What you may not know is that occupant fatality rates differ–sometimes dramatically–depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

Vehicles with the Highest Fatality Rates

The Most Dangerous Car Brands

Many factors impact crash risks and the likelihood of surviving a car accident. Statistically, though, some manufacturers have higher fatality rates than others. ISeeCars–a search site for those looking to purchase a vehicle–looked at fatal crash reports for vehicles manufactured between 2018 and 2022 and determined that the manufacturers with the highest rates of occupant deaths were: 

1. Tesla, with an occupant fatality rate double the overall average
2. Kia, with an occupant fatality rate more 96% higher than the overall average
3. Buick, with an occupant fatality rate 71% higher than the overall average
4. Dodge, with an occupant fatality rate 57% higher than the overall average
5. Hyundai, with an occupant fatality rate 39% higher than the overall average

While those differences may sound dramatic, the increased risk of death can be much more extreme for particular models. 

Cars and SUVs with the Highest Occupant Death Rates

Based on manufacture years of 2018-22, the cars and SUVs with the highest fatality rates were: 

1. Hyundai Venue, with an occupant fatality rate 4.9 times the average
2. Chevrolet Corvette, with an occupant fatality rate 4.8 times the average
3. Mitsubishi Mirage, with an occupant fatality rate 4.8 times the average
4. Porsche 911, with an occupant fatality rate 4.6 times the average
5. Honda CR-V Hybrid, with an occupant fatality rate 4.6 times the average
6. Tesla Model Y, with an occupant fatality rate 3.7 times the average
7. Mitsubishi Mirage G4, with an occupant fatality rate 3.6 times the average
8. Buick Encore GX, with an occupant fatality rate 3.4 times the average
9. Kia Forte, with an occupant fatality rate 2.9 times the average
10. Buick Envision, with an occupant fatality rate 2.8 times the average

Some of the data is difficult to reconcile. For example, the analysis found that the overall fatality rate for smaller cars is higher than that for midsize vehicles, cars or trucks. That’s not surprising, given that smaller, lighter cars tend to provide less protection to the occupants. However, you may have noticed that five of the 10 vehicles with the highest occupant fatality rates are SUVs.

Many Factors Impact Traffic Fatalities

The occupant fatality rates discussed above are based on the number of vehicle miles traveled, not the likelihood of surviving a crash. So, driver factors may play a role. For example, perhaps drivers who choose certain types of vehicles are more likely to speed,or to engage in other behaviors that increase the risk of a collision on the road. 

Most car accidents are caused–at least in part–by someone’s negligence. Even when factors outside a driver’s control are in play, such as low visibility or icy roads, negligence often plays a role. Some common causes and contributing factors include: 

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Driving while fatigued
• Looking at a cell phone or other distraction while driving
• Disregarding traffic signals
• Following too close
• Poor vehicle maintenance

If you have been injured in an automobile accident that you believe was someone else’s fault, or have lost a loved one to a motor vehicle crash, you owe it to yourself to learn more about your rights and options. Fair compensation can provide the resources you need to recover and rebuild. 

Attorney Kevin P. Broderick has been fighting for Massachusetts and New Hampshire car accident victims for decades. To learn more about how the Broderick Law Firm can help you, call 978-459-3805 or fill out our contact form. The initial consultation is free and there’s no obligation.