Not all vehicles are created equal especially when it comes to safety. Some models go above and beyond to protect their drivers and passengers, while others have a track record of recalls, high fatality rates, or risky designs. That’s why it’s crucial to look past the paint job and into the crash data when choosing your next ride.
This review from Farmer & Morris breaks down real-world accident statistics, national safety ratings, and vehicle design analysis to highlight which cars, trucks, and SUVs are leading the pack in protection and which might be falling short.
Why the Data Matters
To understand what’s really happening on the roads, we looked at accident and fatality data from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
In 2023, North Carolina reported:
- 284,157 crashes
- 115,009 injuries
- 1,686 fatalities
Across the country, there were 40,990 motor vehicle deaths last year. These aren’t just numbers they’re a reflection of how vital it is to choose a safe vehicle and practice responsible driving habits every time you get behind the wheel.
Top-Performing Models for Safety
Some vehicles consistently rank at the top for crash protection, reliability, and long-term performance. Using data from iSeeCars, IIHS, and NHTSA, we pulled together the top five safest vehicles on the road today:
- 2021 Honda Accord (Midsize Sedan) – ⭐ 10/10
- 2022 Toyota Avalon (Large Sedan) – ⭐ 10/10
- Honda Passport (Midsize SUV) – ⭐ 10/10
- Ford Expedition (Large SUV) – ⭐ 10/10
- Ford F-150 (Pickup Truck) – ⭐ 9.6/10
These ratings are based on a combination of crash test results, safety features, resale value, and reliability. If safety is a top concern for you or your family, these are solid options worth considering.
The Vehicles with the Highest Fatal Crash Rates
Unfortunately, some well-known car brands are showing up more often in fatal accident reports. Whether it’s due to design flaws, performance issues, or lackluster safety systems, these brands have the highest number of fatal crashes per billion miles driven:
- Tesla – 5.6
- Kia – 5.5
- Buick – 4.8
- Dodge – 4.4
- Hyundai – 3.9
Many of these manufacturers have also faced multiple recalls ranging from electrical fires to power steering problems—which only increases concerns about safety.
Tesla, in particular, has raised eyebrows due to its high crash fatality rate and ongoing questions about autonomous driving systems and driver misuse.
If a brand consistently appears in both fatal crash reports and recall lists, it’s worth asking: is the vehicle design flawed? Are the safety features effective? And is the marketing encouraging risky behavior?
The Human Factor: How Driver Behavior Impacts Safety
While vehicle choice plays a major role, how you drive matters just as much if not more. Even the safest vehicle can’t protect you from poor decisions behind the wheel.
According to 2023 crash data:
- Speeding was a factor in 29% of fatal crashes nationwide (23% in NC)
- Alcohol-impaired driving contributed to 32% of deaths (22% in NC)
- Distracted driving was involved in 7.8% of fatal crashes (7.3% in NC)
Sporty vehicles or those with high horsepower might be more frequently involved in high-speed crashes. It raises questions not only about how these vehicles are marketed but also how they’re used by drivers in real-world scenarios.
Make Informed Choices, And Protect Your Rights
When it comes to road safety, knowledge really is power. Choosing a safe vehicle and practicing smart driving habits go hand in hand. And if you or a loved one is ever injured in a crash, it’s important to know your legal rights.
Manufacturers may be responsible for unsafe designs, misleading safety claims, or failure to address recurring defects. In these situations, a trusted car accident attorney can help you navigate next steps and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you’re looking for legal help in North Carolina, our team at Farmer & Morris is here to support you. Your safety matters and we’re here to make sure you’re protected every mile of the way.