When it comes to DUIs, not all car models are equal. If you’re wondering which vehicles are most frequently associated with drunk driving incidents, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of the car models with the most DUIs. Drawing from extensive insurance application data, we’ll dive into the surprising trends that connect certain car types to higher DUI rates, from everyday pickups to luxury sedans. Stay with us as we explore the data and what it reveals about driver behavior and DUI statistics!
Key Takeaways
- The vehicle with the most DUIs in 2022 was the Acura NSX.
- Pickup trucks such as the Dodge Ram 2500, Chevrolet S-10, and Ford Ranger, along with some luxury sedans like the BMW 7-Series and Audi A4, have been identified as having the highest rates of DUI citations.
- A new study analyzed over 2.7 million car insurance applications to determine DUI trends across 415 different vehicle models, revealing crucial patterns for understanding and preventing drunk driving.
- Despite the widespread issue of DUIs, some car models including the Volvo XC70 and discontinued vehicles like the Mercury Mystique have notably lower DUI rates, which may be attributed to advanced safety systems and demographic factors.
Unveiling the Vehicles: A Breakdown of DUI Statistics
Despite concerted efforts to curb drunk driving, it remains a significant issue. Each year, around a million Americans face a DUI citation, with certain vehicles consistently showing higher DUI rates than others. But how do we know which car models are the most notorious culprits?
An insurance company recently dove deep into its extensive database of over 4 million car insurance applications to find an answer to this question. They identified the car models with the highest DUI rates by contrasting the number of drivers reporting at least one DUI citation on their record in the past seven years with the total number of drivers across 415 different vehicles.
Interestingly, the data revealed that young, white males are more likely to be arrested for DUI offenses compared to other demographic groups. Furthermore, certain vehicles like the GMC Sierra and Dodge Dakota, are frequently driven by individuals with high DUI rates. This information serves as a sobering reminder that drunk driving is not just a widespread issue, but one that is closely tied to specific demographics and car models.
The Notorious Leaders: Car Models with Highest DUI Rates
10. Buick Lucerne
The Buick Lucerne ranks 10th on our list of car models with the highest DUI rates, with 28.8 DUIs per 1,000 drivers. This means that out of every 1,000 Buick Lucerne vehicles, more than 28 are operated by individuals who have received a DUI within the past seven years. In comparison, the national average DUI rate for all vehicles is 13.2 per 1,000.
It is worth noting that Buick discontinued the Lucerne in 2011. During its production years, this model did not achieve the highest safety ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2011 Buick Lucerne a safety rating of 3 out of 5 stars, with two-star ratings for the Overall Side Star Rating and Overall Side Pole Star Rating. Additionally, there were two recalls for this model year.
9. Toyota Landcruiser
According to new data from Insurify, the Toyota Landcruiser and the Buick Lucerne had the same number of DUI violations, both accounting for 28.8 per 1,000 vehicles. This rate is more than double the national average of 13.2 per 1,000 vehicles. However, the Landcruiser was recently discontinued in 2021, unlike the Lucerne.
The 2021 Toyota Landcruiser had a retail price of approximately $85,000, making it the most expensive model in Toyota’s lineup. Renowned for its reliability, capability, and luxurious interior, the Landcruiser did not undergo crash testing by the NHTSA. Nonetheless, the 2021 model boasted advanced safety features such as a pre-collision warning system and lane departure alerts.
8. Audi A5
The Audi A5 is known for having one of the highest rates of DUI incidents among luxury car models. Our data reveals that out of every 1,000 Audi A5 drivers, 29 have been reported for DUI offenses. When compared to other cars we reviewed, the A5 ranks eighth in terms of DUI incidents.
Despite its high DUI rate, the 2022 Audi A5 Sportback boasts a perfect five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the safety ratings for other A5 models, such as the cabriolet and coupe, are currently unavailable. The Audi A5 comes with a moderate price tag starting at $44,600 for the base model, but it also offers higher-trim packages that include a range of performance and safety features.
7. Chevrolet Caprice
The Chevrolet Caprice boasts a DUI rate of 29.6 per 1,000 vehicles, ranking it seventh among all car models in our database. Although this vehicle is no longer in production and was phased out of Chevrolet’s lineup in 2017, it left a lasting impression. With an MSRP of $32,965, the 2017 Chevrolet Caprice made its mark.
Chevrolet introduced the Caprice to the consumer market in 1966, captivating drivers with its timeless four-door sedan design. Over time, the vehicle underwent various redesigns while still maintaining its distinct identity. Notably, Chevrolet also manufactured the Caprice for law enforcement use, where it became a trusted companion for police departments. With a top speed of 155 mph, the Chevrolet Caprice outperformed many competitors, solidifying its place in law enforcement fleets.
6. Cadillac Seville
A recent study revealed that out of every 1,000 Cadillac Sevilles on the road, approximately 30.4 vehicle owners have been caught driving impaired. This DUI rate for the Cadillac Seville surpasses the national average for all models by more than 130%. It’s worth noting that the NHTSA has not provided a rating for the Cadillac Seville.
Cadillac decided to discontinue the Seville in 2004 after a successful production run of over three decades. This vehicle offered a high level of customization, with various trim packages and exterior colors to choose from. The final model year of the Seville carried a retail price of nearly $46,000, which reflected the growing demand for luxury vehicles from Europe in the United States at that time.
5. GMC Suburban
The GMC Suburban stands out as one of the few models in the top 10 that is still being produced. It is positioned as a premium vehicle within GMC’s lineup, starting at an MSRP of $56,900. Marketed as a family-friendly SUV, it has been honored as the Best Large SUV for Families by U.S. News & World Report for two consecutive years.
Despite this prestigious recognition, it is disheartening to note that the Suburban has one of the highest DUI rates among all models. Shockingly, nearly 40 out of every 1,000 Suburban owners have been involved in DUI incidents. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the vehicle has received high safety ratings. The NHTSA has awarded it an impressive overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with several test categories earning a perfect 5-star rating.
In summary, while the GMC Suburban continues to be a noteworthy option, with its production longevity and family-oriented design, the concerning DUI statistics should not be overlooked. Nonetheless, its commendable safety ratings reinforce its reliability on the road.
4. Nissan NV
The Nissan NV, a passenger van that Nissan discontinued in 2021, had a retail price of just over $32,000. According to recent data, it had the fourth-highest DUI rate among all vehicles, with 34.4 DUIs per 1,000 cars. The Nissan NV’s DUI rate was over 160% higher than the national average for all vehicle models.
The Nissan NV van was designed for drivers who needed to transport a large number of people or carry a significant amount of cargo. With its 12 seats and up to 218.9 cubic feet of cargo space, it provided ample room. Additionally, the van was equipped with a Class IV tow hitch receiver, allowing for towing capabilities of up to 8,700 lbs. It’s worth noting that the NHTSA did not provide a rating for this vehicle during the years it was in production.
3. Audi A4 Allroad
The Audi A4 Allroad ranks at number three on our list of the top 10 car models with the highest number of DUIs. Out of every 1,000 Audi A4 Allroad vehicles, 35.7 are operated by individuals with a DUI record. This figure is more than 170% higher than the average for all cars in the United States.
Currently in production, the Audi A4 Allroad boasts a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MRSP) of $45,900. Audi promotes this model as a practical, efficient, and sporty vehicle, offering a fuel consumption rate of 26 mpg and a spacious cargo capacity of 58.4 cubic feet. It’s important to note that the NHTSA has not provided a rating for the Audi A4 Allroad, including recent model years such as 2021 and 2022.
2. Chevrolet Astro
According to our database, the Chevrolet Astro has the second-highest number of DUIs, scoring 37.2 out of 1,000. It is somewhat surprising considering that the Chevrolet Astro is primarily used as either a large passenger van or a cargo van. Production of the Astro began in 1994 and officially ended in 2005.
While this model lacks an overall safety rating from the NHTSA, it does have ratings in specific categories. For instance, the 1998 Chevrolet Astro received a 3 out of 5-star frontal crash rating for both the driver’s and passenger’s sides. However, it did not receive a rating for side crashes or rollovers.
1. Acura NSX
The Acura NSX has the highest rate of DUIs among all the cars in our database. Our analysis reveals that 46.6 out of every 1,000 Acura NSX owners have been convicted of driving under the influence, surpassing all other vehicles by a significant margin.
While the Acura NSX may not be the most popular vehicle on the road, primarily due to its six-figure price tag, it stands as the most expensive vehicle in our top 10 list, starting at $171,495. Comparing it to the national average DUI rate for all vehicles, which stands at 13.2 out of 1,000, the DUI rate for the Acura NSX is astonishingly 253% higher.
Spotlight on Pickup Trucks
Pickup trucks, despite their rugged charm and practicality, have garnered a less-than-ideal reputation in relation to DUIs. The RAM 2500, Chevrolet S-10, and Ford Ranger are among the pickup truck models recognized for having some of the highest DUI rates among all vehicle types.
For example, the RAM 2500 has 45.3 drivers with a DUI for every 1,000 drivers applying for an insurance policy, which is significantly higher than the average driver. The Chevrolet S-10 is also close behind, with 35.9 drivers per thousand having at least one DUI citation. This indicates a significant proportion of DUI citations among Chevrolet S-10 drivers. These numbers are a stark reminder of the prevalence of DUIs among pickup truck drivers.
Interestingly, pickup truck drivers with elevated DUI rates are primarily male, particularly in the 21-24 age group. Females represent only a small fraction of pickup truck drivers, at just 10.3%. The high DUI rates among pickup truck drivers can be attributed to significant risk factors such as driver error and a predominance of male drivers.
Sedans and Luxury Cars: A Closer Look
Although pickup trucks are conspicuous for their high DUI rates, they are not the sole vehicle type associated with DUIs. In fact, luxury sedans such as the BMW 7-Series and Audi A4 also rank high in DUI rates, indicating that this issue is not limited to any specific vehicle category.
The DUI rates for these luxury sedans are considerably high. The Audi A4, for instance, has a DUI rate that’s 74 percent higher than the national average, with 39.0 per 1,000 drivers. This information underscores the fact that DUI behavior impacts a wide variety of demographics and isn’t confined to drivers of a specific vehicle type or price range.
The association of luxury sedans with high DUI rates may seem surprising to some. After all, these vehicles are typically marketed for their advanced safety features and sophisticated driving technology. However, the data underscores the reality that the risk of DUIs is not exclusive to any specific type of vehicle, and even drivers of luxury cars are not immune to the influence of alcohol.
Analyzing the Data: How Car Insurance Applications Reveal Trends
A recent study examined over 2.7 million car insurance applications in their database, enabling them to figure out the proportion of drivers with one or more prior DUI citations on their record for every car model. This approach provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between vehicle choice and DUI rates.
This analytical approach brings to light significant trends and patterns that can guide the development of prevention strategies and interventions. Gaining insights into the car models most frequently associated with DUI citations helps us comprehend the dynamics of drunk driving behavior and the contributing factors.
Beyond the Numbers: Understanding DUI Behavior
While statistics and data analysis can provide valuable insights into DUI behavior, it’s equally important to delve deeper into the psychological factors that influence this dangerous behavior. Research has shown that individuals with certain personality traits are more prone to engage in DUI. These traits include:
- Heightened impulsivity
- Sensation seeking
- Low attention to consequence
- Diminished decision-making abilities
Understanding these psychological factors can help in developing effective strategies to prevent DUI incidents.
Alcohol consumption can significantly affect driving abilities by:
- Diminishing alertness
- Impairing motor coordination
- Impairing vision
- Impairing judgment
This can lead to an increase in risky driving behaviors, which are a common characteristic among individuals with DUIs.
Various factors that can influence an individual’s propensity to engage in drunk driving include:
- The speed and type of alcohol consumed
- Pre-drinking food intake
- Age
- Gender
- Body weight
- Involvement in fraternity/sorority
Understanding these factors can be crucial in developing effective interventions to prevent DUIs.
Safety and Sobriety: Models with Fewest Drunk Drivers
While certain car models are associated with high DUI rates, there are also those that stand out for their low DUI rates. These vehicles are typically equipped with advanced safety systems like:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot detection
- Collision warning
- Cross-traffic alert
Take for instance the Volvo XC70 and the Mercury Mystique, two of the ten car models that are discontinued but known to have low DUI rates. These vehicles, despite no longer being in production, remain desirable choices for drivers seeking a safer ride.
Identifying car models with the lowest DUI rates can provide valuable information for those looking to make safer vehicle choices. Opting for a vehicle with a lower DUI rate enables drivers to contribute to the overarching goal of curbing drunk driving incidents.
The Role of Discontinued Models
Interestingly, many car models with high DUI rates are no longer in production. Six of the ten models with the highest DUI rates have been discontinued as of 2008 at the latest. This raises questions about why these vehicles remain popular among drunk drivers.
These discontinued models are primarily driven by younger drivers, particularly those aged 21-24 and 25-34. This may be associated with the affordability of these vehicles as used cars. It’s a sobering reminder that the problem of DUIs is not limited to new cars but also extends to older, discontinued models.
The data on discontinued car models used in the analysis of DUI rates comes from the Kelley Blue Book for the final production year of the models. This allows for a historical assessment of their DUI rates, shedding light on the persistence of DUI behavior across different generations of vehicles.
Driving Patterns and Vehicle Choice
Exploring the relationship between driving habits, vehicle preferences, and DUI rates can shed light on the factors that influence drunk driving behavior. Research has indicated a correlation between vehicle preferences and DUI rates, with certain types of vehicles showing higher rates of DUI incidents.
Typically, WRX drivers prone to DUIs, like Subaru WRX drivers, demonstrate the following behaviors:
- Consuming between one and four alcoholic beverages per week
- Swerving and speeding
- Being more likely to be involved in accidents and moving traffic violations
These behaviors suggest a potential link between vehicle choice and risky driving habits.
Interestingly, motorcycle operators exhibit the highest percentage of alcohol-impaired drivers in comparison to other vehicle types. This data underscores the importance of understanding the relationship between vehicle choice and drunk driving behavior in order to develop more effective prevention strategies.
Legal Consequences and Support
The legal ramifications of DUIs can be severe. Individuals convicted of DUI may face the following consequences:
- Imprisonment
- Fines
- Mandatory alcohol assessment and treatment
- Community service
- Probation
- License suspension or revocation
These consequences serve as strong deterrents, highlighting the seriousness of drunk driving and its impact on public safety.
In some cases, a DUI conviction can be expunged from one’s record under certain circumstances. However, it’s important to remember that the consequences of drunk driving extend beyond legal penalties. DUIs can result in life-altering injuries and death, causing immense pain and suffering for victims and their families.
While the consequences of DUIs are undeniably severe, support is available for victims of impaired drivers. Numerous organizations provide assistance and resources for those affected by drunk driving, helping them navigate the legal process, access financial support, and find emotional support during their recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What car brand has the most DUIs?
The car brand with the most DUIs is BMW, with a rate nearly twice as high as the next-highest ranking brand, Ram. Other brands with low DUI rates include Mitsubishi, Volvo, Mercury, and Kia. Drive safe.
Who has the highest DUI rate?
Residents of Idaho, Minnesota, Nevada, and Wyoming have the highest DUI rates at 4 percent each, twice the national average, making them the states with the highest DUI rates in the U.S.
What are the car models with the highest DUI rates?
The car models with the highest DUI rates include the Dodge Ram 2500, Chevrolet Astro, GMC Suburban, Acura Integra, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ford Ranger. Choosing a vehicle associated with lower DUI rates is advisable for safety.
What are some safety features present in car models with low DUI rates?
Car models with low DUI rates often include advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, collision warning, and cross-traffic alert to enhance driver safety on the road.
What are the psychological factors influencing DUI behavior?
The psychological factors influencing DUI behavior include heightened impulsivity, sensation seeking, low attention to consequence, and diminished decision-making abilities, all of which can contribute to risky driving behavior.
Remember This When Purchasing Your Next Car!
The issue of drunk driving is multifaceted, with certain car models showing higher DUI rates than others. Understanding the patterns and factors that contribute to DUI behavior can inform prevention strategies and interventions. While the consequences of drunk driving are severe, understanding the role of vehicle choice and driving habits can help reduce DUI incidents and create safer roads for everyone.
