Loading

What is the safest pickup on the road?

When it comes to choosing a safe vehicle on the road, pickup trucks often come under scrutiny. However, not all pickups are created equal. In fact, there are certain models that stand out as the safest pickup options available to consumers. In this article, we'll explore the key factors that make a pickup truck safe and identify the top contenders for the safest pickup on the road.


Factors that Contribute to Pickup Truck Safety


Pickup truck safety is determined by a variety of factors, including the vehicle's design, safety features, and performance characteristics. Some of the most important considerations include:



  • Structural Integrity: The strength and rigidity of the truck's frame and body can greatly impact its ability to withstand impacts and protect occupants in a collision.

  • Safety Features: Advanced safety technologies, such as airbags, electronic stability control, and collision avoidance systems, can significantly enhance a pickup's overall safety performance.

  • Handling and Stability: A pickup's handling characteristics, including its weight distribution, suspension, and braking system, can affect its stability and maneuverability, which are crucial for accident avoidance.

  • Crash Test Ratings: Objective safety evaluations, such as those conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), provide valuable insights into a pickup's real-world safety performance.


By considering these factors, we can identify the safest pickup trucks on the market and make informed decisions when choosing a vehicle that prioritizes the safety of both the driver and passengers.


The Safest Pickup Trucks


Based on the factors mentioned above, several pickup truck models stand out as the safest options on the road. These include:


1. Ford F-150


The Ford F-150 is a perennial favorite in the pickup truck segment, and it also happens to be one of the safest. The latest F-150 models feature a high-strength steel frame, advanced safety technologies, and impressive crash test ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS.


2. Ram 1500


The Ram 1500 is another top contender for the safest pickup truck. It boasts a robust steel frame, a suite of advanced safety features, and strong crash test performance, making it a reliable and secure choice for drivers.


3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500


The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a well-rounded pickup that also prioritizes safety. With its sturdy construction, comprehensive safety systems, and positive crash test results, the Silverado 1500 is a safe and capable option for those in the market for a pickup truck.


It's important to note that safety is not the only factor to consider when choosing a pickup truck, as factors such as performance, utility, and personal preferences also play a significant role. However, for those who prioritize safety, the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 stand out as the safest pickup trucks on the road.

What's the safest pickup truck on the road?


Large pickups

  • Top Safety Pick. 2024-25 Ford F-150 crew cab pickup.
  • 2024-25 Ford F-150 extended cab pickup.
  • 2024-25 Rivian R1T crew cab pickup.
  • 2025 Toyota Tundra extended cab pickup.
  • 2024 Toyota Tundra crew cab pickup.
  • 2025 Toyota Tundra crew cab pickup.
  • 2024 Toyota Tundra extended cab pickup.



Are pickup trucks safer in crashes?


However, the size and design of a vehicle can be a double-edged sword. While larger vehicles often provide a perception of safety, statistics reveal that passengers in trucks are three times more likely to be killed in a crash compared to those in cars.



What is the best truck in an accident?


Safest Trucks at a glance

  1. 2025 Rivian R1T.
  2. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz.
  3. 2025 Toyota Tacoma.
  4. 2025 Toyota Tundra.



Are pickup trucks safer in an accident?


According to the NHTSA, accidents involving light pickup trucks have a fatality rate that is 23% higher than crashes involving other passenger vehicles. Pickup trucks are also about three time more likely to be involved in rollover accidents because of their high ground clearances.



What is the longest lasting pickup on the road?


Longest Lasting Trucks

  • The List of Most Dependable Trucks.
  • Toyota Tundra.
  • Toyota Tacoma.
  • Ford F-150.
  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
  • GMC Sierra 1500 (Honorable Mention)
  • Selecting the Most Reliable Truck for Your Needs.



Which pickup truck has the least problems?


Most Reliable Trucks

  • 2025 GMC Sierra 2500HD: J.D. Power Reliability Score: 75/100.
  • 2025 Ford F-150: J.D. Power Reliability Score: 78/100.
  • 2025 Toyota Tundra: J.D. Power Reliability Score: 78/100.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma: J.D. Power Reliability Score: 79/100.
  • 2024 Ram 2500: J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100.



What is the most accident prone truck?


Tractor-trailers that carry heavy freight are prone to accidents. This would explain why logging truck crashes occur often. While there are more tractor-trailer accidents than perhaps box truck crashes, like collisions involving delivery trucks, the latter are on the rise.



Which Silverado to stay away from?


2012 and 2013 Silverado
These models are among the worst years in the Silverado 1500's second generation. Consumers complained about transmission, engine, and interior accessory problems. If you're considering buying a used truck, count these models as some of the Chevy Silverado 1500 years to avoid.



What is the most reliable pickup of all time?


Ah, the Toyota Tundra – a truck that's synonymous with reliability. With its beefy 5.7L V8 engine, this full-size pickup has the power to get the job done while still offering that legendary Toyota dependability. Speaking of dependability, these Tundras are known to keep on ticking well past the 300,000-mile mark.



What pickup truck not to buy?


GOBankingRates spoke with a mechanic and truck expert who listed three pickup trucks they would never buy and reasons why they are not worth it.

  • Ford F-150 (2018) MSRP: $27,705-$60,520.
  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2019) MSRP: $28,300-$57,700.
  • Nissan Titan (2020) MSRP: $36,190-$59,280.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.