The Most Dangerous Cars Still on the Road in 2026

The Ford F-150 is America’s best-selling pickup truck, but that doesn't make it the safest. Many F-150s lack important safety features, such as electronic stability control or collision avoidance. More so, because these they are so large, rollovers can be especially dangerous - for both the passengers and other drivers in the case of a collision. Newer F-150s are a bit safer, but they still have below average safety ratings. 

The Chevrolet Spark is a small hatchback that offers some of the lowest safety ratings of any modern-day vehicle. Its light build does not protect well in crashes with bigger vehicles, and IIHS data shows that it scores poorly in side-impact tests as well. While the car is cheap and fuel efficient, it doesn't have any advanced safety features. Many people choose the Spark for its affordability, but this comes with a higher risk of serious injury or death. In crashes with more than one vehicle, Spark drivers are at a greater risk, which makes this one of the least safe small cars still available.

The Mirage is another small car that doesn't do well in crash tests. Because it's so compact and lacks strong structural support, high-speed and side-on collisions are particularly dangerous. Additionally, the IIHS gave it low marks for roof strength. Even the latest models don't include the latest safety features, so drivers face risks that other, more safety-oriented cars help prevent. While the Mirage is affordable and easy to maintain, its safety issues (or lack thereof) are hard to ignore. 

Kia Rio models generally have a poor record for crash safety. Their small size means there is less space for crumple zones, and side-impact protection is also pretty weak. Although newer models are slightly safer, older Rios are still on the road and often used by younger drivers or those on a budget. These cars lack any sort of advanced safety features, making them riskier to drive in traffic. Insurance data shows that death rates are higher for the Rio than most other mid-size sedans. Overall, it's a car to avoid if safety is you priority. 

The Nissan Versa is known for being one of the most affordable sedans out there, but the low price comes at the expense of safety. Both older and newer models don't perform well in crash tests - especially in side and rear impacts. Additionally, these cars lack any sort of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring or collision avoidance. While newer Versas are slightly safer, there are plenty of better options out there to choose from. In fact, the Versa is still considered to be one of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. 

The Ford Fiesta is one of the most commonly driven cars on the road right now. However, despite its affordability and fuel efficiency, it also a reputation for poor crash-test results. Because the car is so small, passengers are more at risk in a crash. Many of the older versions don't even have curtain airbags. Additionally, older and less sophisticated parts were used in the manufacturing process in order to cut costs, making the car even more prone to issues on the road. If you are looking for something safety-oriented, the Fiesta definitely isn't the car for you. 

Despite its questionnable safety ratings, the Dodge Dart is a popular sedan. Its crash-test results were below average, with weak side-impact protection and a roof that did not hold up well. The Dart also does not include any sort of advanced safety features. Many people keep the car around because it is affordable. However, it also comes with a higher risk in serious crashes. Fatality data shows that Dart drivers face more danger than those in other mid-size sedans. Because of its older design and lack of modern safety updates, the Dart is considered one of the most dangerous cars on the road. 

The Chrysler 200 - which stopped production in 2017, but is still one of the most popular sedans on the road right now - has a poor safety record. Crash tests found weak spots in side-impact and rollover protection. Many versions do not include newer safety features, such as lane-keeping assist or automatic braking. As these cars get older, their structure becomes less reliable, making them even more dangerous. Although the Chrysler 200 looks good and is affordable, its outdated safety design makes it a risky option for families. 

Jeep Wranglers have a reputation for rollover risks, as they have a very high center of gravity. In fact, crash tests have shown that they offer weak side-impact protection and poor roof strength. Although newer models are slightly better in this department, they still have below average safety ratings. Their tough appearance can make drivers feel safer than they actually are. In real crashes, however, the risks are high. Rollovers are especially dangerous, making the Wrrangler one of the most dangerous cars on the road at the moment. 

Ford Escape models do not perform well in crash tests - especially in side-impact and rollover situations. Because they have a higher center of gravity, these vehicles are more likely to tip over during sharp turns or crashes. The roofs are also not very strong, which puts people at risk if the car rolls over. Many drivers invest in the car as an affordable solution, not knowing the safety risk involved. Additionally, it lacks any sort of advanced safety features, putting passengers at an even higher risk. 

Because of the lightweight materials used in construction, the Hyundai Tucson does not perform well in crash tests. Passengers are especially vulnerable during rollovers and high-speed crashes. These vehicles also lack any sort of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring or lane-keeping assist. Overall, the car is appealing for its low sales price and general reliability, but it definitely isn't the best option for families or those who prioritize safety above all else. 

The Chevrolet Silverado is one of the brands most dangerous vehicles. Because they are big and heavy, rollovers can be extremely dangerous - especially if the truck does not have modern stability systems. Older models also have weaker roofs and less side-impact protection, which put people at risk. Many of these trucks don't have driver-assistance features now found in more modern vehicles. While these cars are popular for their practicality and size, they are also considered to be one of the most dangerous cars on the road right now. 

The Dodge Ram 1500 may look great, but it can also be risky to drive. These cars are prone to roll-overs and have sub-par safety ratings. Their sheer size and weight can make accidents much worse than they would otherwise be - especially since many do not offer modern stability systems. More so, roof strength and side-impact protection are not included in the earlier models. Many pickup trucks don't have the advanced safety features that are common in SUVs and sedans. So, if you are looking for a family-friendly vehicle, the RAM 1500 definitely isn't the way to go. 

Sports and muscle cars are generally some of the most unsafe vehicles on the road. Not only are they compact, but they also bring out the worst in drivers, as they are designed for speed. Their powerful engines lead to speeding, reckless driving and risky moves. Statistics show that drivers of these cars have higher death rates - especially in single-vehicle crashes. While newer models come with a number of safety features, there is very little that can protect a driver going over 120 mph. The Camaro offers very little interior room, making crashes that much more dangerous. 

The Dodge Caravan is an older model, but it is still one of the brands most popular vehicles on the road right now. Its boxy shape and poor crash protection make it more likely to be severely damaged in side impacts and roll-overs. More so, most do not include newer safety features, such as lane-keeping assist or blind-spot monitoring. Families often use these vans to carry multiple passengers, which can make accidents that much worse. Overall, the Caravan is a practical car, but it just doesn't meet the necessary safety standards.