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Cars Ranked by the Number of Fatal Accidents

We’ve all heard the phrase, "Safety first!" — but not all cars live up to that mantra. Some vehicles boast luxury interiors and sleek designs, while others are, unfortunately, linked to higher rates of fatal accidents. Whether it’s due to sheer size, design quirks, or driver behavior, certain cars have made a name for themselves (and not in a good way) when it comes to fatal crash statistics.

This article dives into the cars that have been involved in the most fatal accidents over time, providing a mix of statistics, analysis, and a dash of truth about how choice, design, and power impact safety. From intimidating SUVs to speedy sports cars, the rankings reveal a sobering reality: size, speed, and popularity can be a deadly mix.

While some drivers may think that their model is safe because it has modern features or top-notch ratings, the numbers don’t always agree. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just trying to pick out your next daily driver, this list offers an insightful glimpse into how driving history shapes safety perceptions.

So, buckle up (seriously), and let’s explore the cars you might want to think twice about getting behind the wheel of—because knowledge is power, and safety is priceless.

These rankings are based on data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Mitsubishi Mirage

Mitsubishi Mirage
  • Make: Mitsubishi
  • Model: Mirage
  • Fatal Accidents: 205 deaths per million registered vehicles

The Mitsubishi Mirage isn't just a compact car; it has the unfortunate distinction of being a statistical heavyweight when it comes to fatal accidents. With 205 deaths per million registered vehicles, this small hatchback shows that size doesn't always equal safety.

Its affordability and minimalist design make it a popular choice, but it doesn't fare well in the numbers game. While the Mirage might shine in terms of efficiency and tight parking spots, its safety reputation takes a hit with these statistics. If you’re eyeing one for your next ride, it’s worth considering its accident history — because nobody wants to become part of these grim stats.

Mr.choppers, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dodge Challenger

Dodge Challenger
  • Make: Dodge
  • Model: Challenger
  • Fatal Accidents: 154 deaths per million registered vehicles

The Dodge Challenger is a beast of a car with its roaring engine and muscle-car appeal, but it comes with a grim statistic: 154 deaths per million registered vehicles. Known for its speed, power, and aggressive style, this iconic ride has its fair share of fans — and crashes.

The Challenger’s high-performance capabilities can be thrilling, but they often translate to higher risks on the road. Its combination of horsepower and driver temptation can lead to dangerous decisions, making this vehicle a frequent player in fatal accidents.

While it’s a dream car for many enthusiasts, owning one means understanding its risks. Speed thrills, but safety kills — choose wisely.

MercurySable99, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark
  • Make: Chevrolet
  • Model: Spark
  • Fatal Accidents: 151 deaths per million registered vehicles

The Chevrolet Spark might look like the ultimate city car — compact, efficient, and easy to maneuver — but its safety stats reveal a harsher truth. With 151 deaths per million registered vehicles, this small hatchback has a sobering presence on the fatal accident list.

While it’s loved for its affordability and practicality, the Spark’s lightweight frame and minimal protection can make it vulnerable in crashes. It's a reminder that being a budget-friendly ride doesn't always translate to being the safest choice on the road.

For anyone considering the Spark as their daily driver, understanding these numbers is key. Cute, efficient, and nimble? Yes. Safe? Not always. 

Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet Camaro
  • Make: Chevrolet
  • Model: Camaro
  • Fatal Accidents: 110 deaths per million registered vehicles

The Chevrolet Camaro combines style, power, and muscle with a sleek design, but it comes with its own safety concerns. With 110 deaths per million registered vehicles, this iconic sports car lands on the fatal accident radar, proving that speed and style can come at a cost.

The Camaro's powerful engine and performance capabilities make it a joy for enthusiasts, but they also mean drivers may be tempted to push limits on the road. This leads to higher risks and, unfortunately, a greater likelihood of fatal crashes.

While the Camaro remains a favorite for car lovers, balancing performance with responsibility is crucial.

Reinhold Möller, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nissan Altima

Nissan Altima
  • Make: Nissan
  • Model: Altima
  • Fatal Accidents: 113 deaths per million registered vehicles

The Nissan Altima is known for being a reliable, mid-sized family sedan with comfort and style, but its safety stats tell a different story. With 113 deaths per million registered vehicles, the Altima proves that even the most practical cars aren't immune to risks on the road.

While it’s a favorite for its affordability and efficiency, the Altima’s numbers highlight the challenges drivers face when navigating busy streets and highways. Factors like speed, driver error, and crash susceptibility contribute to its standing in fatal accident statistics. If you’re driving or considering purchasing one, stay alert — reliability can only go so far without cautious driving.

Benespit, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hyundai Venue

Hyundai Venue
  • Make: Hyundai
  • Model: Venue
  • Fatal Accidents: Highest fatal accident rate among small SUVs

The Hyundai Venue may be a popular choice for those seeking a compact, affordable SUV, but its safety record isn’t exactly comforting. It holds the title of the highest fatal accident rate among small SUVs, making it a concerning choice for safety-conscious drivers.

While the Venue offers modern tech features, style, and efficiency, its stats suggest it struggles in crash performance. Small SUVs are generally practical, but the Venue’s design and risk factors put it at a disadvantage when it comes to preventing fatal outcomes. If you're in the market for a small SUV, it's worth weighing its affordability and convenience against these sobering numbers.

SsmIntrigue, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chevy Corvette

Chevy Corvette
  • Make: Chevrolet
  • Model: Corvette
  • Fatal Accidents: High fatal accident rate

The Chevy Corvette combines stunning design, powerful engines, and sports car appeal, but it comes with a dark side: a high fatal accident rate. Known for speed, performance, and thrilling drives, the Corvette’s capabilities often lead to dangerous situations on the road.

With its powerful engine and tempting speed, many drivers find themselves pushing the limits, contributing to its alarming accident statistics. While the Corvette is a dream car for many enthusiasts, its speed and design can quickly turn a joyride into a tragedy if not handled responsibly.

For anyone behind the wheel of this iconic sports car, remembering that style and power should always come with caution is key.

Don DeBold, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Porsche 911

Porsche 911
  • Make: Porsche
  • Model: 911
  • Fatal Accidents: High fatal accident rate

The Porsche 911 is a symbol of luxury, style, and blistering performance — but it comes with a dangerous reputation. Known for its speed, precision, and iconic design, the 911 has a high fatal accident rate, primarily linked to its impressive power and the temptation to push it to its limits.

With its powerful engine and razor-sharp handling, the 911 offers an adrenaline rush like no other. However, that same performance often leads to risky driving behaviors, contributing to a higher likelihood of fatal crashes.

While the Porsche 911 remains a dream car for many enthusiasts, owning one demands responsibility and careful driving. After all, looks and speed won't save you when things go wrong.

Fox Wu from Frankfurt am Main, Germany, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Honda CR-V Hybrid

Honda CR-V Hybrid
  • Make: Honda
  • Model: CR-V Hybrid
  • Fatal Accidents: High fatal accident rate

The Honda CR-V Hybrid offers a blend of efficiency, technology, and practicality, but its safety stats reveal a concerning trend. This hybrid SUV carries a high fatal accident rate compared to other vehicles in its class, despite its family-friendly design and modern features.

While hybrid vehicles are praised for their fuel efficiency and environmental benefits, the CR-V Hybrid's numbers suggest that design, size, and driving behavior all contribute to its risk factors. Its status as an SUV, combined with speed and driver decisions, places it higher on fatal accident statistics.

Before getting behind the wheel, remember: safety is about more than just technology.

Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model Y
  • Make: Tesla
  • Model: Model Y
  • Fatal Accidents: High fatal accident rate

The Tesla Model Y is a modern favorite among electric vehicle enthusiasts for its tech-forward design and innovative features, but it also has a high fatal accident rate. While Teslas are celebrated for their autopilot features and sleek design, this statistic highlights the risks that come with speed, technology reliance, and driver behavior.

The Model Y's performance capabilities, combined with its advanced tech features, can lead to overconfidence and risky decisions on the road. Although equipped with safety innovations, its high fatal accident rate serves as a reminder that even advanced technology can’t eliminate human error entirely.

Drivers should prioritize caution — because no feature replaces careful driving.

Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons