Electric Vehicle Safety

Electric vehicles (EVs) are as safe as gasoline cars in many ways, and often score well in crash tests. They also behave differently: they're quiet, quick and heavy, and carry a high-voltage battery. Knowing the differences helps drivers, pedestrians, mechanics and first responders stay safe.

• Drivers
• Pedestrians & Cyclists
• Mechanics
• First Responders

Driving an EV

• Expect instant torque. EVs accelerate quickly from a stop. Press the pedal gently until you get used to it, especially in wet weather or parking lots.
• Learn regenerative braking. Lifting off the accelerator can slow the car noticeably (“one-pedal driving”), and the brake lights come on in many models. Adjust the setting to your comfort, and be ready to use the brake pedal.
• Mind the weight. Batteries add weight, so EVs take longer to stop, put more wear on tires, and carry more crash energy. Leave extra following distance, check tire pressure and use EV-rated tires. See Tire Safety.
• Know your driver-assist features and limits. They help but don't replace attention. See Driver Assist Systems.
• Plan for range in cold weather, hills and towing, which reduce it. Don't run the battery to zero on remote roads. See Winter Driving and Stranded in Winter.
• Use seat belts, child seats and airbags as in any car. See Seat Belts & Airbags.

Quiet vehicles and pedestrians

• EVs and hybrids make little noise at low speeds, so people who are walking, biking, blind or distracted might not hear them. Federal rules require new EVs and hybrids to make an alert sound at low speeds, but the sound is faint, and older models may lack it.
• As a driver, slow down in parking lots, driveways and neighborhoods, and watch for pedestrians, children and cyclists. See Pedestrians & Cyclists.
• As a pedestrian, look both ways and don't rely on hearing alone. Take out earbuds near traffic.
• Check the vehicle is truly off or in park: a silent EV can be “ready” with no engine sound, and creeping or accelerating accidentally has caused injuries.

Charging safely

• Use the charger supplied or approved for your vehicle, and avoid cheap, uncertified cords or adapters. See Home EV Charging.
• Have a licensed electrician install home chargers on a dedicated circuit, with proper ratings and permits.
• Don't use extension cords or worn outlets for charging. Check the plug and outlet for heat or discoloration, and stop if they get hot.
• Keep chargers dry and protected, and coil cables so they aren't a trip hazard or driven over.
• At public chargers, inspect the cable and connector for damage, don't use ones that are cracked or exposed, and park without blocking others.
• Keep combustibles clear of the charging area, and have working smoke alarms nearby. See Smoke & CO Alarms.

High voltage, crashes and fires

• EVs have a high-voltage battery and bright orange cables (typically 300 to 800 volts). Never cut, open or touch orange cables or battery parts. Service by qualified technicians only. See EV Charger Installers.
• After a crash, check for smoke, odors, leaking fluid and damaged battery casing, and move away from the vehicle if you see them. Call 911 and tell the dispatcher it's an electric vehicle. Don't touch exposed wires or the underside. See After a Crash.
• Battery fires from damaged cells can burn intensely and may restart hours or days later (“thermal runaway”). Leave fighting an EV fire to the fire department, keep your distance and let them handle it. Damaged EVs should be stored outdoors away from buildings and not charged until inspected.
• Many EVs have first responder guides and a service disconnect, which can be found online. Keep your vehicle's guide handy and know where the 12-volt battery and emergency disconnect are.
• If a vehicle has been in flood water, especially salt water, don't charge or drive it until it's been checked. Flooded batteries can cause fires later. See Flooded Roads.
• Towing: use a flatbed or follow the manual, since towing with drive wheels on the ground can damage the motor.

EV checklist

• I know how regenerative braking and acceleration feel before I drive in traffic
• I slow down near pedestrians since the car is quiet
• I use an approved charger on a proper circuit and inspect cables
• I never touch orange high-voltage cables; I tell 911 it's an EV after a crash
• I keep a damaged or flooded EV away from buildings and don't charge it

Last updated: October 5, 2026