EVs vs. Gas Cars: Which One Is Safer?

In 2023, motor vehicle crashes claimed the lives of 40,990 people across the United States—that’s more than 120 fatalities every day. At Omega Law Group, we know that safety on the road matters now more than ever, especially as electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity.

To better understand how EVs and gas-powered vehicles compare when it comes to safety, we took a deep dive into the data. From crash protection to fire risk, the results may help drivers make smarter choices on what they drive next.

EVs vs. Gas Cars: Which One Is Safer?

Every vehicle on the road must meet strict federal safety standards. But EVs often go a step further, offering built-in features that enhance crash protection, like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping systems, and collision avoidance tech.

Because EVs don’t have a traditional engine, they can be designed with reinforced frames and a lower center of gravity. That structure makes them less likely to roll over during a crash. And when you look at injury rates, the difference is clear: EV drivers file 40% fewer injury claims than those driving gas-powered cars.

One concern that gets a lot of attention is the risk of battery fires. But when it comes to the numbers, EVs are actually involved in significantly fewer fires:

• Electric vehicles: 25 fires per 100,000 sold
• Gas vehicles: 1,530 fires per 100,000 sold

While EV battery fires can be tougher to extinguish, they happen much less frequently.

Comparing Safety in 2025

Electric vehicles are leading the charge in modern safety innovation, while gas-powered vehicles have the benefit of decades of engineering and crash testing. The safety of a gas car, though, can vary widely based on the model year and features.

Here’s how the two types stack up:

Electric Vehicles (EVs):

• Frequently include advanced driver assistance systems
• Lower rates of injury claims
• Strong rollover protection due to frame and weight distribution
• Agile handling that can help avoid collisions

Gas-Powered Vehicles:

• Performance varies more with model and age
• Proven durability in crash testing
• Often better suited for long-distance travel
• May lack modern safety features if not a newer model

According to the latest ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), only 48 vehicles met the top crash safety standards in 2025, a reminder that newer doesn’t always mean safer, regardless of engine type.

Why More Drivers Are Choosing EVs

EVs are the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the U.S. As of 2023, there were 3.3 million EVs on American roads, compared to 288 million gas-powered vehicles. So, what’s driving the shift?

Top reasons include:

• Access to advanced safety tech
• Fewer fire-related incidents
• Smoother and quieter driving experience
• Lower lifetime maintenance and fuel costs

Still, new challenges come with new tech. For example, EVs are so quiet that regulations now require them to emit artificial sounds under 19 mph to help alert pedestrians.

No Matter the Car, Safety Starts With the Driver

Whether you drive electric or gas, the biggest factor in avoiding crashes isn’t the car—it’s you. Driver behavior is the cause of about 90% of all accidents.

To stay safe:

• Avoid speeding—leave early and follow posted limits
• Don’t drive under the influence—use a designated driver or rideshare
• Eliminate distractions—keep your phone out of reach
• Rest up—drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving

Our Take on Vehicle Safety

At Omega Law Group, we’re all about helping people make informed, safe decisions. The data shows EVs offer some real safety advantages, but no vehicle can protect against risky behavior behind the wheel.

So, whether you’re in a gas-powered pickup or a brand-new EV, remember: good driving habits save lives. Let’s make the roads safer for everyone, one responsible driver at a time.