When you’re car shopping, it’s easy to get caught up in looks, features, and how fast it can go from zero to sixty. But here’s the thing: none of that matters if your vehicle can’t protect you in a crash.
Every year, thousands of Americans are killed in motor vehicle accidents. While road conditions and driver behavior play a role, your choice of vehicle could be the deciding factor between a minor injury and a life-threatening one. In this recent study from Farmer & Morris, we take a closer look at safety ratings, crash data, and real-world accident statistics to break down which vehicles are doing their job and which ones are coming up short.
Why Vehicle Safety Rankings Matter
We reviewed data from both the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to understand the bigger picture. And let’s just say, the numbers are sobering.
In 2023:
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North Carolina recorded 284,157 crashes, with 115,009 injuries and 1,686 fatalities.
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Nationally, 40,990 people died in motor vehicle accidents.
That’s nearly 41,000 lives lost in one year—many of which could’ve been prevented with safer driving habits and, yes, better vehicles.
The Safest Cars on the Road Right Now
So, which vehicles deliver when it comes to keeping you safe? Based on crash test scores, reliability, resale value, and real-world accident data, these models stand out:
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2021 Honda Accord (Midsize Sedan): 10/10
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2022 Toyota Avalon (Large Sedan): 10/10
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Honda Passport (Midsize SUV): 10/10
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Ford Expedition (Large SUV): 10/10
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Ford F-150 (Pickup Truck): 9.6/10
What do they all have in common? Strong crash test performance, long-term dependability, and thoughtful engineering. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, these are solid picks that prioritize safety without sacrificing performance or style.
The Other Side of the Spectrum: High-Risk Vehicles
Not all cars are created equal. Some popular brands have higher fatal crash rates per billion miles driven, and that’s something to take seriously.
According to our analysis, these are the top 5 brands with the highest fatal accident rates:
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Tesla: 5.6 per billion miles
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Kia: 5.5
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Buick: 4.8
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Dodge: 4.4
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Hyundai: 3.9
Many of these vehicles also have a history of frequent recalls tied to serious issues—things like engine fires, steering failure, and electrical system malfunctions. When you pair those risks with high crash rates, it paints a concerning picture.
In Tesla’s case, the data raises questions about whether marketing, performance features, or even over-reliance on self-driving tech could be contributing to the problem.
Behavior Still Matters: It’s Not Just About the Car
Even if you drive the safest vehicle on the road, dangerous driving habits can still put you and others in harm’s way.
In 2023:
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Speeding contributed to 23% of fatal crashes in North Carolina and 29% nationwide.
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Drunk driving played a role in 22% of NC crashes and 32% nationally.
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Distracted driving was involved in 7.3% of NC crashes and 7.8% nationwide.
While vehicle design can help reduce injury severity, prevention starts with the person behind the wheel.
Easy Tips to Drive Smarter and Safer
Safety isn’t just about airbags and crumple zones. It’s about how we behave on the road. Here are a few tips that could save a life (maybe even your own):
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Silence your phone: Put it on Do Not Disturb. That text can wait.
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Skip the shortcuts: Speeding barely saves time and increases your risk of a serious crash.
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Don’t drink and drive: Ever. Call a friend, a rideshare, or a cab.
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Stay on top of maintenance: Check for recalls, get your brakes checked, and keep your tires in good shape.
Smart Drivers Choose Smart Cars
If you’re buying a vehicle, go beyond the horsepower and look at the big picture. Review the crash test ratings. Check for past recalls. And be honest with yourself about how you drive.
A flashy car won’t mean much if it can’t protect you in a collision, or if it ends up in the shop every other month due to avoidable defects.
Remember: your car should work for you, not against you.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, especially one involving a vehicle with a known safety issue, you may have legal options. Farmer & Morris is here to help you understand your rights, deal with insurance headaches, and get the compensation you deserve.
Because your safety and your peace of mind should never be optional.
