The most dangerous countries in the EU to rent a car
11th of February 2025
Voyager Research: The most dangerous countries in the EU to rent a car
As soon as humanity began its journey as a civilisation, exploring the neighbouring land was a crucial part of every society and determined the state’s influence and power. In the Middle Ages, adventurers went on journeys that might last several years and there was no guarantee that they’d come back alive.
Nowadays, travelling has become as affordable and convenient as it was ever before. Some choose all-inclusive hotels, while others adore apartments and living with the locals. However, if the trip’s goal is to get to know the culture and the country better, renting a car is an important step to accomplish it.
At GoVoyager, we acknowledge that driving culture and conditions may be surprising and sometimes overwhelming for travellers, however, it drastically impacts the vacation experience and impression of the country. As a campsite and motorhome booking aggregator, we are responsible for raising awareness of the differences and struggles with car rental and driving experience in EU states.
Key factors to measure the safety of the roads of each country
In this study, we compared the most significant factors, that measure the safety of roads meant for European residents and tourists.
- Road accidents per 1 million residents;
- Fatal accidents per 1 million residents;
- Road quality index of each EU country;
- Cross-country road quality based on the travel time between large cities according to Google Maps;
- Car daily rental data, if renting in the capital city for a week in high season and timely.
These indexes help to identify the overall safety and efficiency of European roads, as well as the possibility of tourists renting a car in EU countries.
Road accidents
Road safety is essential when choosing to travel by car across European roads. The number of road accidents represents the likelihood of getting into a car accident while driving. It also demonstrates the behaviour of local drivers and the traffic density within specific road areas, which may impact travel time.
Fatal accidents
The following index represents the amount of road accidents that ended fatally. This index provides insights into the safety of road networks, the effectiveness of traffic regulations, road infrastructure, and the probability of unsafe driving behaviours. A high fatal accident rate creates emotional distress and major safety concerns during travel.
Road quality index
Road quality index is another important factor that must be considered when choosing a country to travel around by car. Beforehand, it is recommended to assess the overall condition of public roads and their infrastructure. If public roads are maintained properly and on time, their quality and durability do not get worse quickly.
Mean Speed Score
When travelling within a country, travellers usually tend to find the most efficient way of driving from point A to point B. The efficient infrastructure of the roads, wise choice of terrain, and low traffic density can help travellers to drive effectively across the state.
Average daily rent
Many travellers choose to travel across the country by car because it gives them more flexibility in planning their personal routes. Moreover, many travellers prefer using rented cars rather than public transport due to increased comfortability, and instant access. Thus, It is essential to pick the best possible offer in terms of price and accessibility. Some travellers tend to travel during the off-season, which significantly lowers the rental price.
Key Findings
Best and Worst Countries for Renting a Car:
France ranks as the best country for car rentals due to its high road quality and efficient infrastructure. Romania ranks the worst with poor road conditions and lower satisfaction scores.
Road Quality Variance:
France leads with a road quality index of 6.18, closely followed by the Netherlands at 6.15. Romania trails with the lowest index at 2.96, revealing a significant disparity of over 110% between the highest and lowest scores.
Road Accident Rates:
Austria reports 5,304 road accidents per million residents, over 12 times higher than Slovakia, which has 430 accidents per million, highlighting stark differences in road safety across Europe.
Fatal Accidents:
Bulgaria experiences the highest rate of fatal road accidents at 81.6 per million residents, nearly four times higher than Sweden, which has the lowest rate at 21.8 per million.
Speed and Connectivity:
Romania has the lowest mean speed score at 73, while Portugal demonstrates superior road efficiency and connectivity with a top score of 106, showing a 45% difference in infrastructure performance.
Correlations Between Cost and Quality:
Countries like France and Austria combine higher rental costs with better road quality, while low-cost countries such as Latvia maintain competitive pricing despite having mid-tier road conditions.
Maps of the safest and most dangerous EU countries to rent a car
Road accidents Per 1m - Worst
- Austria - 5,304
- Belgium - 3,181
- Germany - 3,163
- Italy - 2,918
- Romania - 2,913
The high number of road accidents per capita is affected by a combination of heavy traffic, extensive road networks, and a lack of compliance with traffic regulations. Austria and Belgium top the list due to mountainous terrain and frequent road usage by tourists. The high accident rate in Romania is described by outdated infrastructure and poor safety regulations enforcement. Getting into a car accident can lead to unexpected costs, especially if the insurance doesn’t cover such cases, as well as cause unwanted stress during vacation. Additionally, car accidents influence travelling time as they cause traffic jams and road closures, and travellers need to take different routes to reach their destinations.
Road accidents Per 1m - Best
- Slovakia - 430.12
- Denmark - 520.36
- Portugal - 642.80
- France - 790.94
- Finland - 963.62
Slovakia and Finland benefit from lower traffic density and strong enforcement of safety standards. Denmark focuses on cycling infrastructure and urban planning, which allows visitors to explore tourist destinations conveniently by bicycle. Portugal and France have made significant improvements in road safety campaigns and infrastructure modernisation. A low chance of getting into a potential car accident provides travellers with a stress-free and time-efficient travelling experience. Strict law enforcement and safety measures provide tourists with efficient road networks, and calm driving habits of local drivers.
Road Fatalities - Worst
- Bulgaria - 81.6
- Romania - 81.1
- Latvia - 75.4
- Croatia - 71.2
- Greece - 59.6
A high fatality rate in Bulgaria and Romania is impacted by underdeveloped rural road networks and limited investment in safety improvements. Latvia and Croatia face similar challenges because of poor road conditions and maintenance. Greece's fatality rate is influenced by drivers’ behaviour on narrow and mountainous roads. High rates can deter tourists from visiting these countries due to high safety concerns. It can cause anxiety and stress during the trip, which can influence the travelling experience negatively. Additionally, it reduces the mobility of tourists, as they have to avoid roads with increased danger and choose longer routes.
Road Fatalities - Best
- Sweden - 21.8
- Denmark - 26.1
- Malta - 29.5
- Finland - 32.5
- Germany - 33.5
"Vision Zero" safety project, which originated in Sweden, prioritises accident prevention through innovation of new safety approaches, and public awareness. Denmark and Finland implemented strict speed controls and developed modern road systems. Germany offers a well-designed road network and promotes a high commitment to safety standards. Travellers can reach desired destinations stress-free due to increased safety measures through public campaigns and strict law enforcement. Moreover, such conditions provide travellers with more mobility and increase joy from travelling, as they can plan their routes without safety concerns and visit all destinations according to their initial plan.
Road Quality Index - Worst
- Romania - 2.96
- Malta - 3.24
- Latvia - 3.45
- Bulgaria - 3.52
- Hungary - 3.89
The low road quality index is related to ongoing challenges in infrastructure development and road maintenance. Romania and Bulgaria face serious problems in funding. Latvia and Hungary demonstrate major differences in road conditions between urban and rural areas. Malta, despite its small size, has limited road space and intense traffic. Poor road conditions can cause damage to rental cars during transportation. Additionally, poor road quality leads to slower and less comfortable trips due to traffic density. Also, it decreases the mobility of travellers because they have to change their plans due to not being able to reach their desired destinations.
Road Quality Index - Best
- Netherlands - 6.18
- Portugal - 6.05
- France - 5.96
- Austria - 5.89
- Spain - 5.63
The Netherlands and Austria prioritise safety and traffic efficiency with highly developed networks. Portugal is a leading country in Southern Europe with inefficient road infrastructure. France combines extensive networks with strict safety standards, while Spain focuses on upgrading highways and urban roads. High-quality roads minimise the risk of getting into a car accident or damaging a car during the trip caused by uneven surfaces and potholes. In addition, high-quality roads minimise traffic density, which makes travelling more efficient and comfortable. Travellers can access remote areas, allowing them to travel care-free and visit any desired destination.
Mean Speed Score - Worst
- Romania - 73
- Cyprus - 76
- Latvia - 77
- Denmark - 78
- Estonia - 81
The low mean speed index reflects challenges such as infrastructure limitations and high traffic density, which lowers the average travel speed. Romania and Latvia face poor road conditions and high traffic in rural and urban areas. Many roads in Cyprus are mostly narrow, which also contributes to speed limitations. Denmark and Estonia prioritise safety through speed limits and strict measures against careless drivers. Overall, such conditions rocket fuel consumption due to longer distances to be driven, which causes additional costs. Also, it significantly increases travel time because travellers must spend more time on the routes due to poor infrastructure.
Mean Speed Score - Best
- Portugal - 106
- France - 105
- Spain - 103
- Czech Republic - 98
- Croatia - 98
The high mean speed score is affected by efficient road networks and highway systems. Portugal, France, and Spain benefit from extensive high-speed motorway networks with lower traffic, which contributes to consistent high-speed travel, and makes the travelling experience more enjoyable. The Czech Republic and Croatia have invested significantly in modernising road infrastructure, particularly highways. Such advanced solutions ensure faster travelling time for tourists as they can visit more destinations within a shorter time period.
Rental Index - Worst
- Austria - €45
- Denmark - €35
- Estonia - €34
- Spain - €31
- Slovenia - €30
Austria and Denmark experience higher rental prices due to the strong economy and high quality of car rental services. Estonia and Slovenia also experience high seasonal demand during peak tourist seasons. The success of Spain as a major tourist destination results in higher car rental prices, even if the car is booked in advance. High car rental prices limit access to rental vehicles for budget-concerned travellers. This can also push tourists away from exploring less accessible destinations and encourage them to use alternative transportation options, such as public transport, which is less convenient in terms of comfort and mobility.
Rental Index - Best
- Latvia and Germany - €15
- Hungary - €18
- Netherlands, Bulgaria, Lithuania and Sweden - €20
- Croatia and Slovakia - €22
- Estonia, Greece, Italy and Malta - €24
Car rentals in Latvia, Hungary, and Bulgaria benefit from lower costs and less intense competition for premium services, keeping prices affordable. Strong competition among companies in Germany and the Netherlands helps maintain affordable car rental options despite higher living standards. Greece, Italy, and Malta offer competitive prices due to high tourism demand and car rental diversity. Low-cost car rentals allow travellers to spend saved finances on other activities, that can enrich their travelling experience. Additionally, they can explore more remote areas, and rent the car for a longer time period due to low rates.
The most dangerous countries in the EU to rent a car
- Romania
- Latvia
- Bulgaria
- Italy
- Belgium
Due to various factors, Romania, Latvia, Bulgaria, Italy, and Belgium are the most dangerous EU countries for car rentals and road travel. Romania has the lowest Road Quality Index, influenced by poor infrastructure, and one of the highest fatality rates. Latvia and Bulgaria face similar challenges, with outdated road systems and significant accident rates. Italy and Belgium experience intense traffic and aggressive driving behaviours. These factors significantly increase safety risks and overall driving experience for tourists unfamiliar with local driving conditions.
The least dangerous countries in the EU to rent a car
- France
- Portugal
- Sweden
- Netherlands
- Denmark
France, Portugal, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark are considered the safest EU countries for renting a car and travelling. These countries have lower accident rates, better road conditions, and strong traffic law enforcement. Sweden, for instance, combines an efficient and safe road network with a high-quality road condition. Denmark and the Netherlands emphasise measures against reckless drivers and modern infrastructure. France and Portugal benefit from well-maintained highways and strict traffic laws. Travellers are provided with a safe environment to travel in more efficiently and in comfort with modern infrastructure and high-quality road conditions.
Regional Trends in Car Rental Safety Across the EU
Car rental safety in the EU shows striking regional differences due to infrastructure and drivers' behaviour. Eastern European countries, including Romania and Bulgaria, face high risks due to low Road Quality Indexes and high fatality rates. Southern European countries, such as Italy, are also at increased risk due to busy roads, aggressive driving, and poor enforcement of traffic laws. All these factors can significantly ruin the travelling experience because visitors are more likely to get involved in car accidents. The low road quality index and mean speed score impact travel efficiency within the country. As a result, travellers’ driving speeds lower significantly, as well as they may encounter inappropriate driving behaviour on the road.
On the other hand, Northern and Western Europe demonstrate higher safety standards with well-maintained infrastructure and lower fatality rates. Countries like Sweden and the Netherlands benefit from a disciplined driving culture. Portugal and France in Southern Europe show improvements due to modernised road infrastructure. Visitors benefit from faster travelling around the country, as they can visit desired destinations without spending a lot of time on the road, and plan their trip accordingly. Also, the chances of getting into a car accident are lower due to strict law enforcement, and road safety measures.
Conclusion
Car rental safety and road conditions in the EU vary significantly based on various factors, that may impact the overall travelling experience. Countries like Romania and Bulgaria show higher risks of getting into a car accident due to poor road quality (e.g., RQI: 2.96 and 3.52), and poor behaviour of local traffic. On the other hand, nations such as Sweden and the Netherlands offer safer driving environments with disciplined drivers and well-maintained roads. Comprehensive insurance is crucial to avoid financial liabilities in case of accidents, particularly in countries with higher risks. Travellers should carefully review rental agreements for terms like damage waivers and fuel policies to prevent unexpected costs. Visitors must plan the trip wisely by choosing the most beneficial rental options. Additionally, it is recommended to evaluate road conditions, and infrastructure to travel around the country efficiently.
Tips for Renting a Car Safely in the EU
- Booking Smartly: Book your rental car in advance, especially during high seasons, to ensure the best prices and availability. Use authoritative platforms and compare prices, including insurance and additional services for a better travelling experience.
- Insurance: Choose comprehensive or collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance to protect yourself against financial responsibilities. Check if your personal insurance covers car rentals.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Before driving, inspect the car for any damages and capture them in photos or videos to avoid disputes when you return it.
- Driving Safety: Get acquainted with local traffic laws, speed limits, and driving culture. In high-risk countries, be more careful and avoid driving in rural or areas with poor lighting at night.
- Common Pitfalls: Clarify all potential costs, including toll roads, and fuel. Choose rentals with competitive prices and avoid unnecessary spending.
- Navigation: Use reliable GPS or offline maps to avoid getting lost, especially in countries with complex road systems or language barriers.
By planning everything properly, securing efficient insurance, and understanding the local driving environment, travellers can ensure a safer and more cost-effective car rental experience across the EU.
| Place (worst to best) | Country | Road accidents per 1m | Fatalities per 1m | Road Quality Index | Mean Speed Score | Average daily rent starting price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Romania | 2,913.6 | 81.1 | 2.96 | 73 | €25 |
| 2 | Latvia | 1,709.5 | 75.4 | 3.45 | 77 | €15 |
| 3 | Bulgaria | 1,024.7 | 81.6 | 3.52 | 88 | €20 |
| 4 | Italy | 2,918.86 | 51.5 | 4.39 | 95 | €24 |
| 5 | Belgium | 3,181.44 | 41.1 | 4.39 | 92 | €25 |
| 6 | Cyprus | 2,708.0 | 36.9 | 5.22 | 76 | €25 |
| 7 | Poland | 1,170.3 | 51.5 | 4.14 | 92 | €28 |
| 8 | Czech Republic | 1,810.27 | 46.4 | 3.95 | 98 | €28 |
| 9 | Slovenia | 2,396.45 | 38.7 | 4.66 | 90 | €26 |
| 10 | Malta | 2,380.01 | 29.5 | 3.24 | - | €24 |
| 11 | Austria | 5,304.0 | 44.2 | 5.89 | 96 | €45 |
| 12 | Hungary | 1,669.65 | 50.1 | 3.89 | 96 | €18 |
| 13 | Estonia | 1,353.04 | 43.2 | 4.68 | 81 | €24 |
| 14 | Croatia | 2,674.80 | 71.2 | 5.49 | 98 | €22 |
| 15 | Lithuania | 1,212.80 | 56 | 4.7 | 89 | €20 |
| 16 | Greece | 1,030.28 | 59.6 | 4.73 | 93 | €24 |
| 17 | Luxembourg | 1,627.86 | 39.3 | 5.34 | - | €30 |
| 18 | Slovakia | 430.12 | 49.2 | 3.96 | 93 | €22 |
| 19 | Ireland | 1,085.37 | 35.1 | 4.48 | 88 | €25 |
| 20 | Germany | 3,163.76 | 33.5 | 5.46 | 97 | €15 |
| 21 | Spain | 2,354.11 | 37 | 5.63 | 103 | €31 |
| 22 | Finland | 963.62 | 32.5 | 5.26 | 83 | €25 |
| 23 | Denmark | 520.36 | 26.1 | 5.55 | 78 | €35 |
| 24 | Netherlands | 1,326.80 | 38.4 | 6.18 | 87 | €20 |
| 25 | Sweden | 1,913.17 | 21.8 | 5.57 | 94 | €20 |
| 26 | Portugal | 642.80 | 57.3 | 6.05 | 106 | €26 |
| 27 | France | 790.94 | 46.5 | 5.96 | 105 | €29 |
Methodology
The GoVoyager team has developed a comprehensive ranking system of all 27 EU members, ranking each country across various statistical data related to road safety, infrastructure efficiency, and car rental possibilities, which are crucial factors for any seasoned traveller.
To calculate the road accident index per 1 million residents, the population data of each country was used together with data on road accidents with injuries from the EU Safety Council report, published in 2022. The number of road accidents was divided by the overall population of each country, and multiplied by 1 million residents.
The same formula was used for calculating the fatality index per 1 million residents for all EU countries. The team has substituted data of road accidents with injuries with fatality road accidents for 2023, published by Istat in 2024.
Road quality index was taken from the World Population Review based on a survey conducted in 2019.
The mean speed score was published by IMF with the latest data from 2022.
The average daily car rental price was scraped by using data from Auto Europe and Expatrist. It showcases the rental price in the capital for 1 week during off off-season.
Each EU state received a final index score, which was based on the ranking of each country from 1 to 27 by comparing them across 5 aforementioned categories. As a result, the final index was calculated by summing up all rankings, resulting from each category.
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