Take a moment to close your eyes and picture your dream car. What color is it? Color is a powerful force, which can impact everything from someone’s style to their safety when traveling by road across Indiana and the rest of the U.S.
Although the color of a car is not directly responsible for causing accidents, visibility plays a consequential role in road safety. Some car colors are easier to see in various conditions, while others are more difficult to notice, especially in low-light or inclement weather. Ultimately, vehicles that feature low-visibility colors are often more likely to be involved in accidents. Unfortunately, some of the most dangerous vehicle colors in this regard are also among the most popular.
Higher-risk vehicle colors
Research generally shows that darker car colors, particularly black, are more likely to be involved in accidents compared to lighter colors like white, yellow or silver. Black cars, in particular, can be challenging to see at night and in low-light conditions such as dawn, dusk or fog. The lack of contrast between a black vehicle and the dark surroundings makes it harder for other drivers to spot, leading to a higher risk of collisions.
Gray and silver cars are also associated with a higher accident risk, especially in rainy or overcast conditions, which are common in Indiana. Gray cars can blend in with the road and weather, reducing contrast and visibility for other drivers. Even though silver cars are often thought to be safer because they reflect more light, studies indicate they still present a visibility issue under certain conditions, such as heavy rain or fog.
Safer car colors
White cars are generally considered the safest in terms of visibility… unless it’s snowy out. They are easier to see at night and during the day in most weather conditions, providing a strong contrast against most road surfaces. Bright colors like yellow, orange and lime green are also highly visible at virtually all times, which is why emergency vehicles often use these colors. These colors stand out in various lighting and weather conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents due to visibility issues.
Overall, in Indiana, where seasonal weather can vary drastically—ranging from bright, snowy winters to gray, rainy springs—bright and light-colored cars may provide an added safety benefit. Snow and fog can make darker vehicles harder to see, so choosing a lighter and brighter car color may reduce accident risks no matter what a day may look like.