In 2023, 40,990 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes across the United States. That’s more than 120 lives lost every single day. At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we understand the importance of vehicle safety, especially as the conversation around electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow.
We took a closer look at the data to understand how electric and gas-powered vehicles compare when it comes to accident risk, fire safety, and crash performance. What we found offers valuable insights for any driver thinking about vehicle safety today.
Are EVs Really Safer? Comparing Fire and Crash Data Across Vehicle Types
All vehicles sold in the U.S. must meet strict Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, but EVs often come equipped with additional, modern features that enhance crash protection.
Key advantages of electric vehicles include:
- Built-in safety technology: Features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and collision avoidance are common in many EVs.
- Structural design: Without a traditional engine, EVs are often built with reinforced frames and a lower center of gravity—making them less likely to roll over in a crash.
- Crash performance: Injury claims for EV occupants are 40% lower than those in gas-powered vehicles.
Battery fire concerns have made headlines, but the data shows that EVs are involved in far fewer fire incidents than gas-powered cars:
- Electric vehicles: 25 fires per 100,000 sold
- Gas–powered vehicles: 1,530 fires per 100,000 sold
Although EV fires can be more difficult to extinguish due to battery placement, they occur at a significantly lower rate.
EVs vs. Gas Cars: Which Are Actually Safer in 2025? A Data-Driven Comparison
While electric vehicles bring innovation to safety, gas-powered vehicles have a long history of crash testing and engineering improvements. Many modern gas models are highly rated for safety—but outcomes can vary widely depending on the vehicle’s age, design, and available features.
Here’s how both vehicle types compare on safety in 2025:
Electric Vehicles (EVs):
- Commonly include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
- Lower injury claim rates overall
- Enhanced rollover prevention due to design
- Rapid acceleration and responsive handling, which may help avoid crashes
Gas-Powered Vehicles:
- Wide range of safety based on model and year
- Proven reliability and durability in crash tests
- Often better suited for long-distance travel
- May lack standard safety features in older models
Each year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests and rates new vehicles for crash safety. In the most recent round of testing, only 48 models qualified as the safest vehicles in America, reflecting stricter evaluation criteria and the growing importance of advanced safety features across all vehicle types.
The Fastest Growing Vehicle Segment: Why Consumers Are Choosing EVs
EVs are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. auto market. As of 2023:
- 3.3 million electric vehicles are on the road
- Compared to 288 million gas-powered vehicles
Top reasons consumers are moving toward electric options include:
- Access to modern safety technology
- Reduced vehicle fires compared to gas models
- A quieter, smoother driving experience
- Lower long-term maintenance and fuel costs (though not part of crash safety)
However, new technologies come with new challenges. One issue that emerged is pedestrian safety at low speeds since EVs are nearly silent. As of 2023, all-electric vehicles must now emit artificial sounds at speeds under 19 mph to alert pedestrians—particularly in urban areas and crosswalks.
How to Stay Safe on the Road—No Matter What You Drive
While electric vehicles show strong safety performance in both crash and fire data, the biggest risk on the road remains the same: driver behavior.
Here are some important safety reminders for all drivers:
To prevent speeding:
- Leave early to avoid rushing
- Stick to posted speed limits—even if traffic is light
To prevent drunk driving:
- Arrange a sober ride in advance
- Use a designated driver or rideshare service
- Never assume you’re “okay to drive” after drinking
To prevent distracted driving:
- Keep phones out of reach
- Use Do Not Disturb mode while driving
- Avoid multitasking, even for quick texts or calls
Another often overlooked but dangerous behavior is drowsy driving. Fatigue slows reaction time, impairs decision-making, and increases the likelihood of dozing off behind the wheel.
Long drives, overnight trips, or irregular sleep can all contribute to this risk. If you’re feeling tired, it’s better to pull over, rest, or switch drivers than to push through and risk a crash.
It’s important to remember that the type of vehicle is just one factor in crash risk. Driver behavior accounts for 90% of all accidents. Regardless of the vehicle you drive, risky actions behind the wheel remain the biggest threat to safety.
Our Perspective on Vehicle Safety
At Omega Law Group, we believe in the power of data to drive smarter, safer decisions. Electric vehicles show promising results in crash testing and fire prevention, but they aren’t immune to the same dangers that affect all drivers.
Ultimately, safe driving habits are more important than the engine under the hood. By staying alert, using available safety features, and following the rules of the road, drivers in any vehicle type can help make our roads safer for everyone.
