If you’re shopping for a car or navigating the aftermath of a traffic violation or accident, understanding which car brands are associated with the most driving incidents is essential. In 2024, data from LendingTree’s comprehensive report on accidents, DUIs, speeding violations, and other citations reveals some eye-opening trends.
At Spartacus Law Firm, we represent clients in Las Vegas facing charges related to car accidents, DUIs, reckless driving, and more. We’ve seen firsthand how vehicle choice, driver behavior, and legal strategy intersect. This guide explores which car brands have the most incidents and what that means for drivers in Nevada.
What Counts as a “Driving Incident”?
For this article, a “driving incident” includes:
- Car accidents
- Driving under the influence (DUI) charges
- Speeding violations
- Other moving citations and traffic offenses
LendingTree analyzed incident data from over 30 car brands using insurance quotes collected from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Let’s take a closer look at the results.
The Car Brands with the Most Driving Incidents in 2024
1. Tesla – 36.94 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Tesla tops the list in 2024 with the highest overall rate of incidents. That’s up from 31.13 in the previous year. Tesla drivers are also involved in the most accidents—26.67 per 1,000 drivers.
These statistics may be influenced by Tesla’s fast acceleration, high-tech features, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities, which can sometimes lead to overconfidence behind the wheel. In Las Vegas, where high-speed traffic and congestion are common, that mix can be risky.
2. Ram – 33.92 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Ram holds second place again this year. Ram drivers are involved in 23.15 accidents per 1,000 drivers, which is also the second-highest accident rate of any brand.
Ram trucks are popular in both urban and rural areas in Nevada. Their size and power may encourage aggressive driving behaviors, especially in off-road or construction-heavy environments.
3. Subaru – 32.85 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Subaru remains in third place with a significant jump from 30.09 incidents in 2023. Subarus are often marketed as adventure or performance vehicles, which may influence driver behavior.
Models like the WRX have a performance focus, while the brand overall appeals to a younger, active demographic—factors that can affect speeding and citation rates.
4. Audi – 32.23 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Luxury meets risk with Audi, taking the fourth spot. Known for fast sedans and SUVs with advanced features, Audi drivers may engage in riskier driving behavior, particularly at higher speeds.
Audi drivers had the highest incident rate in two U.S. states in 2024, including South Carolina and Virginia.
5. Mazda – 31.86 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Rounding out the top five is Mazda. With zippy, performance-oriented cars like the Mazda3 and MX-5 Miata, Mazda’s vehicles often attract drivers who enjoy driving dynamics, which can sometimes lead to more violations and accidents.
Honorable Mentions: Other Brands with High Incident Rates
- Volkswagen – 31.56 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- BMW – 30.43 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- Honda – 29.89 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- Infiniti – 29.37 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- Toyota – 29.09 incidents per 1,000 drivers
While not topping the list, these brands still reflect higher-than-average incident rates. BMW, in particular, had the highest DUI rate in 2023 and continues to rank high for DUIs in 2024.
Car Brands with the Fewest Driving Incidents
It’s not all bad news. Some brands have significantly lower incident rates:
- Mercury – 18.63 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- Pontiac – 19.72 incidents per 1,000 drivers
- Cadillac – 20.75 incidents per 1,000 drivers
Although Mercury and Pontiac are no longer in production, their older drivers tend to be more cautious. These lower rates can positively impact insurance premiums and legal liability.
Nevada and Las Vegas-Specific Trends
In Nevada, the brand with the highest incident rate is Volvo, with 39.22 incidents per 1,000 drivers. While that may surprise some, it emphasizes how regional driving conditions, such as urban congestion, construction, and tourism, affect road safety.
Las Vegas in particular has some unique challenges:
- High DUI and alcohol-related accident rates
- Tourists unfamiliar with local roads
- Congested streets with high pedestrian traffic
- Frequent stop-and-go driving on the Strip
At Spartacus Law Firm, we regularly represent clients charged with DUIs, reckless driving, and vehicular assault—all charges that can be linked to these high-incident environments.
How Incident Rates Affect Insurance and Legal Outcomes
Higher Insurance Premiums
Insurance providers use incident data to assess risk. If you drive a brand known for frequent accidents or citations, expect higher premiums. Tesla, Ram, and BMW owners may see increased costs even if they have a clean driving record.
Greater Police Scrutiny
Law enforcement may be more watchful of drivers in high-risk brands. Aggressive driving, especially in performance vehicles, may lead to more frequent stops and citations.
Legal Implications in Nevada
In Nevada, traffic violations and DUIs can carry serious consequences:
- First-time DUI: Up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fine, and a 185-day license suspension
- Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor with potential jail time and points on your license
- Felony DUI (3rd offense): Up to 6 years in prison and permanent record
These charges can be aggravated by accident involvement or prior offenses. If you’re driving a car brand with a high incident rate, prosecutors may be less inclined to offer leniency—especially in Las Vegas where the courts are overloaded with traffic and DUI cases.
Why Do Certain Brands Have More Incidents?
There’s no single cause, but here are the top contributing factors:
Driver Demographics
Some brands attract younger or more aggressive drivers. For example, Tesla, Subaru, and BMW appeal to drivers who enjoy speed, performance, and technology.
Vehicle Capability
High-performance vehicles are fun to drive but harder to control at speed. Vehicles that accelerate quickly, like Tesla’s Model 3 (0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds), may tempt drivers to take more risks.
Perception of Safety
Some drivers over-rely on features like Autopilot or lane assist. While these technologies improve safety, they’re not substitutes for attentive driving.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk on the Road
Regardless of what you drive, you can reduce your chances of becoming another statistic:
- Drive defensively and stay alert at all times
- Don’t speed, even if your car can handle it
- Avoid distractions, including your phone and infotainment system
- Never drive under the influence—use a rideshare or call a cab
- Know your vehicle’s limits, especially when driving in poor conditions
How Spartacus Law Firm Can Help
If you’ve been involved in a traffic accident or received a DUI or citation in Las Vegas, we’re here to help. At Spartacus Law Firm, we offer aggressive legal defense for:
- DUI charges
- Reckless driving
- Vehicular assault
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Driving without insurance or license
Our experienced legal team understands how vehicle-related data can affect a case. We investigate every angle to build a strong defense and fight for the best outcome possible.
Contact Spartacus Law Firm Today
Driving a car with a high incident rate doesn’t automatically make you guilty—but it can influence how your case is viewed by police, prosecutors, and insurers. If you’re facing charges in Nevada, don’t wait.
Call Spartacus Law Firm today at (702) 660-1234 for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your rights, your license, and your future.
