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When it comes to collisions, not all vehicles are created equal.
A new report from Insurify reveals the top car models with the highest accident rates in the U.S.
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Topping the list is the Kia Soul EV, with an accident rate of 15.14% in 2024.
Coming in next are the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 (12.57%), Chevrolet Bolt EUV (11.75%), Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (11.74%) and Volkswagen ID.4 (11.68%).
Rounding out the top 10 are the Jeep Wrangler/YJ (11.64%), Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (11.44%), Chevrolet Bolt EV (11.40%), RAM 2500 (11.21%) and Chrysler Voyager (11.21%).
At first glance, it might be tempting to conclude that certain manufacturers produce more accident-prone vehicles. After all, four of the top 10 models — two Jeeps, one RAM and one Chrysler — are made by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler).
But that pattern doesn’t tell the whole story.
Another Stellantis brand, Dodge, had the second-lowest average accident rate among all manufacturers in 2024, at just 6.82% — suggesting that brand alone isn’t a clear predictor of crash risk.
Why some cars get into more accidents than others
The Insurify report doesn’t offer specific reasons why certain vehicles have higher accident rates, but there are several well-known factors that could contribute.
For example, the type of vehicle matters. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data cited in the report, light trucks — a category that includes vans, SUVs and pickups — accounted for 43.2% of crashes in 2022, while passenger cars were involved in 38.1%.
Other contributing factors could include vehicle design and size, the presence of modern safety features and driver demographics and habits.
Some newer vehicles come equipped with advanced safety systems — like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning — which can help avoid collisions. But at the same time, the abundance of high-tech features, such as large infotainment screens, might also increase distraction behind the wheel.
Electric vehicles (EVs) made a strong showing near the top of the accident-rate rankings. In addition to the Kia Soul EV, both the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and Bolt EV, as well as the Volkswagen ID.4, made the top 10.
Marcus Lu at Visual Capitalist suggests one possible explanation: instant torque.
“A likely reason for [the high number of EVs on the accident-prone list] could be the way electric motors deliver instant torque, which may surprise drivers who are used to the more gradual power curve of gasoline engines,” he wrote in an analysis of Insurify’s report.
Lu also cited a 2024 study from the University of Limerick showing that EVs are 4% more likely to be involved in an at-fault insurance claim compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.
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Why accident data matters for your insurance rate
Cars with higher accident rates often cost more to insure — not necessarily because the car itself is more dangerous, but because insurers look at risk data when setting premiums.
But the make and model are just part of the equation. Your location, age and driving history all factor into your car insurance cost.
According to Insurify, Massachusetts had the highest accident rate of any U.S. state in 2024, at 6.07%, while Michigan had the lowest, at 1.68%.
Age also plays a major role. Generation Z drivers had the highest accident rate in 2024, at 6.84%, while baby boomers had the lowest, at 3.12% — which helps explain why younger drivers face steeper insurance premiums.
How to lower your insurance bill
Car insurance rates have been on the rise, and many people overpay without realizing it. According to Forbes, the average cost of full-coverage car insurance is $2,149 per year (or $179 per month).
However, rates vary widely based on a range of factors — including many mentioned above — and you could be paying more than necessary.
By using OfficialCarInsurance.com, you can easily compare quotes from multiple insurers, such as Progressive, Allstate and GEICO, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
In just two minutes, you could find rates as low as $29 per month.
And it’s not just your car that might be costing you more than it should. Home insurance is another major expense where smart shoppers can save big.
With OfficialHomeInsurance, comparing home insurance rates is fast and hassle-free. Just enter a few basic details and the platform will instantly sort through over 200 insurers to find you the best deals available in your area.
You’ll be able to review all your offers in one place, and quickly find the coverage you need for the lowest possible cost, saving an average of $482 a year.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
