5 Most Dangerous Cars on the Road (Are You Surprised Tesla Is One?)

If you want to stay safe behind the wheel, one of the smartest car owner moves is to understand the risks associated with certain vehicle makes and models.

According to iSeeCars data, the average fatal accident rate for all passenger vehicles in the U.S. is 2.8 cars per billion vehicle miles. However, that number is much higher for the vehicles of some manufacturers.

These carmakers have a history of vehicles with higher rates of fatal crashes. It's important to note that iSeeCars says it's possible these high rates might be due more to driver behavior than vehicle design.

With that caveat in mind, here are the top five most dangerous car brands based on accident data.

Fatal accident rate: 5.6 per billion vehicle miles

Tesla has been hailed as a revolutionary company. But high-profile accidents have also drawn serious scrutiny.

Recent investigations into Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system reveal that this technology struggles in low-visibility conditions caused by fog or sun glare. Reports have linked such flaws to multiple crashes, including a fatal pedestrian accident in Arizona.

The Cybertruck — Tesla's futuristic pickup — has also drawn concern. A fiery crash in California claimed three lives, while another accident left a vehicle charred and unrecognizable. The Cybertruck has also been the focus of several recalls and mounting complaints.

Fatal accident rate: 5.5 per billion vehicle miles

Kia is a Korean automaker that is rising in popularity at the same moment that significant reliability concerns emerge.

Recalls of millions of Kia vehicles have exposed troubling defects, including faulty engines and defective braking systems that can lead to fire. In some instances, Kia has advised owners to park their cars outdoors to prevent property damage.

The issues don't stop there. A recent lawsuit over deaths tied to a cruise-control failure also has reinforced the notion that Kia vehicles may have safety vulnerabilities.

Despite these setbacks, Kia remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Fatal accident rate: 4.8 per billion vehicle miles

Long known for its reliability and comfort, Buick has faltered in its safety record, according to iSeeCars.

The Buick LaCrosse has a fatality rate significantly above average. In Denver, the LaCrosse model is the area's most dangerous vehicle, according to a Denver Post report. The LaCrosse has recorded 13 fatalities per billion miles — five times the local average, making it the deadliest passenger vehicle in that market.

Adding to Buick's woes, recent crash tests have revealed deficiencies in the Buick Envista model. It received a "poor" rating in side-impact testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Buick models also have been subject to recalls for things such as airbag deployment failures and ignition switch malfunctions.

Fatal accident rate: 4.4 per billion vehicle miles

Dodge vehicles — especially muscle cars and trucks — are making worrisome news. IIHS data reveals that the Dodge Challenger with rear-wheel drive is the second-deadliest vehicle in the U.S., with 154 driver deaths per million vehicles.

Meanwhile, Dodge's Charger HEMI with rear-wheel drive comes in at 118 driver deaths and 164 other-driver deaths per million registered vehicles, possibly highlighting the risks associated with powerful vehicles at a more budget-friendly price.

More than 211,000 Dodge SUVs and pickups also were recently recalled due to severe stability and brake issues.

As Dodge enters into the EV market, improving safety features will be key to restoring consumer confidence and reducing road fatalities.

Hyundai has been in the headlines too, with recalls related to rear-view camera failures and faulty emergency trunk release latches. More recently, Hyundai recalled vehicles due to problems with its Integrated Charging Control Unit that could lead to a sudden loss of drive power.

As with Kia vehicles, the potential for fire due to an electrical short from a brake fluid leak also resulted in a recall.

Hyundai vehicles also have struggled with vulnerability to theft. A 2023 TikTok trend highlighted the brand's weak anti-theft system, leaving drivers and insurance companies ‌skittish about how easy Hyundais are to steal.

Some insurance companies have refused to extend coverage for specific Hyundai models.

While a vehicle's design and safety features affect crash outcomes, driver behavior remains the most critical factor in avoiding accidents.

Staying focused and alert while adhering to safe driving practices is your best defense on the road, regardless of the car brand you choose.

Whatever vehicle you settle on, try to find ways to cut the cost of ownership. For example, comparing rates from several providers can help you save money on insurance.

Smart driving decisions and shopping around for the best deals can lead to both safer roads and a healthier wallet.