Buying a car isn’t just about style, comfort, or performance—it’s also about safety. Whether you’re choosing a compact commuter, a family SUV, or a sturdy pickup, the most important question to ask is simple: how well will this vehicle protect me in a crash?
At Farmer & Morris, we reviewed state and national crash data, safety ratings, and real-world accident reports to see which vehicles are keeping drivers safe—and which ones may be falling short.
The Bigger Picture: Road Safety in Numbers
The United States recorded 40,990 motor vehicle deaths in 2023. In North Carolina alone, there were:
· 284,157 total crashes
· 115,009 injuries
· 1,686 fatalities
Behind every number is a person, a family, and a life changed in an instant. These figures highlight why it’s so important to look beyond horsepower and luxury features when buying a car.
Cars That Lead in Safety
Certain vehicles consistently perform well in crash tests and real-world reliability. Based on safety data and owner feedback, here are some of the top-rated models:
· 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) – 9.6/10
These vehicles score high across categories like side-impact protection and rollover resistance. For anyone in the market for a new or used car, they’re solid choices for safety and dependability.
Cars With Higher Fatality Rates
Other vehicles, however, show higher fatal crash rates per billion miles driven:
· Tesla: 5.6
· Kia: 5.5
· Buick: 4.8
· Dodge: 4.4
· Hyundai: 3.9
While these numbers don’t mean every model is unsafe, they do suggest potential risks. Tesla, for example, faces ongoing concerns about distracted driving and semi-autonomous features. Other brands frequently appear in recalls for critical issues like power steering failures, engine problems, or fire risks.
Driver Choices Still Matter
Even in a five-star crash-tested car, reckless behavior can turn deadly. National crash data shows:
· Speeding is involved in 29% of fatal crashes.
· Alcohol impairment contributes to 32%.
· Distracted driving accounts for about 8% (likely underreported).
In North Carolina, the numbers are slightly lower but follow the same trend: safe driving habits matter just as much as vehicle choice.
How to Protect Yourself on the Road
No matter what you drive, adopting these habits can make a life-saving difference:
· Put your phone away while driving.
· Stick to speed limits.
· Never drive under the influence.
· Keep your car properly maintained.
· Act quickly on recall notices.
Choosing Safety First
When shopping for a car, it’s tempting to focus on features like sunroofs, sound systems, or sporty designs. But safety should always come first. Review crash test ratings, check recall histories, and consider how the vehicle will perform in your day-to-day driving.
And if you’ve already been in a crash—particularly one involving a vehicle with known safety issues—you may have legal options. The team at Farmer & Morris can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation.
Because while accidents can happen to anyone, your car should always give you the best chance to walk away safely.
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