An estimated 38,880 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents last year, and more than 4 million people required medical attention following an incident, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). It follows that car crashes are a leading cause of death for Americans aged 1–54, as well as the top cause of non-natural death for U.S. citizens residing or traveling abroad, says the CDC. ValuePenguin recently studied the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's fatal crash data from 2014 to 2018 and found deadly accidents happen more often in some cars than in others. The analysis revealed that Ford Mustangs are the worst at protecting passengers, with 0.71 occupants killed per fatal crash and that 2005–2008 model years accounted for the highest portion of fatal crashes. Click through the slideshow to reveal the most dangerous cars, trucks, and SUVs on the road today, according to ValuePenguin.  To ensure safer roads for everyone, the NSC urges motorists to follow the following guidelines:
  • Practice defensive driving, including buckling up, designating a sober driver or alternative transportation, avoiding fatigue through plenty of rest, and avoiding distractions.
  • Recognize the dangers of driving under the influence, including the impairments of driving while on medications.
  • Encourage teens to engage in safe driving habits.
  • Learn about a car's safety systems and how to use them.
  • Fix recalls immediately.
Related: 

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Heather A. Turner

Heather A. Turner is the managing editor of ALM's NU Property & Casualty Group. She can be reached at [email protected].

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