As the celebratory atmosphere of the New Year begins to fade, it’s essential to confront a grim reality: approximately 32% of fatal traffic incidents involve alcohol impairment. In 2022 alone, 13,524 lives were lost in what the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) categorizes as preventable collisions.

A recent analysis by Insurify sheds light on which vehicles are most commonly linked to drivers with DUI citations in 2024. This data is drawn from a comprehensive database of more than 97 million insurance quotes.

To obtain a quote, applicants disclose their vehicle’s make and model along with any DUI offenses, a factor that significantly raises their insurance risk profile. From this data, Insurify has pinpointed the top ten vehicles that correlate with the highest incidence of DUI offenses.

Buick Dominates the List

Notably, three models from Buick have emerged in the top ranks, with two of them clinching the first two positions.

Leading the charge is the Buick Envista, associated with an alarming 72.1 DUIs per 1,000 drivers. Following closely is its sibling, the Buick Encore GX, which records 58.7 DUIs per 1,000. From there, the numbers take a sharp turn; the Chevrolet Bolt EV occupies the third spot with 40.6 DUIs, and the figures continue to decline as the list progresses.

The Buick Enclave also makes an appearance, landing in seventh place with 22.8 DUIs—nearly four times greater than the national average of 6.4 DUIs per 1,000 drivers.

Minivans and Crossovers on the Rise

The report reveals that only two passenger cars appear in the rankings: the Volkswagen New Beetle and the Jaguar XF. The remainder consists of crossovers and minivans, characterized by their practicality and American origins. Interestingly, the Chevrolet Astro, discontinued in 2005, still garners attention with 29.9 DUIs per 1,000 drivers. In stark contrast, the Buick Envista—fresh to the market in 2023—has quickly established itself as a vehicle associated with impaired drivers.

Insurance Implications for Impaired Drivers

Insurify’s report also offers insights into the financial ramifications for drivers with DUIs. Those without such infractions pay an average annual premium of $2,532 for full coverage. In contrast, those with a DUI face a staggering average of $4,176, and securing coverage can be extraordinarily challenging due to heightened risk factors that may lead insurers to deny policies altogether.

Moreover, the financial toll from a DUI conviction can spiral into the five- to six-figure range when considering court fines, legal representation, and other associated costs. The repercussions of impaired driving extend far beyond a single night’s misjudgment.

Concluding Thoughts

Driving under the influence poses significant dangers to all road users. Although myriad campaigns strive to reduce the fatalities linked to DUI incidents, this report offers a glimpse into the vehicles frequently associated with such offenses. Perhaps the broader question lies in understanding why these models attract impaired drivers—an inquiry that may warrant further investigation by Insurify.

In the meantime, armed with this information, it’s wise to exercise caution around these vehicles on the road. Remember, safe driving is a shared responsibility.

Related: Tesla leads the 2024 recall list, followed by these automakers

Source:www.autoblog.com