Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Do I need to be worried about driving a darker color of car?

I live in California and am currently shopping for my first car. I tend to prefer cars with darker paint, but my family is telling me to avoid buying a dark-colored car, since they say it could increase my chance of getting into an accident. I've never heard this before, and I'm inclined to believe it's just a myth—but on the off chance it's not, should I be worried about the color of my car?

avatar
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“Congratulations on your first vehicle! I’m happy to report that it is more of a myth—while driving a dark-colored car at night may make your vehicle slightly less visible, it’s not likely to be the reason for an accident.
If you’re going to get into an accident, even at night, it likely won’t have anything to do with the color of your car. As long as your headlights and turn signals work, that is enough for a vehicle to see you at night.
Most accidents happen due to distracted driving or making bad choices. Driving safely will be the only way to reduce your risk of getting into an accident. If you aren’t a safe driver, you’re more likely to get into accidents, regardless of the color vehicle you drive.
However, if you’re worried (or want to reassure your family), you can always take a
defensive driving course
. These courses can help you avoid accidents and can lower your insurance rates, too!
If you want to be sure you’re getting the best deal possible on your car insurance, try the
Jerry
app. Jerry gathers quotes from top insurance companies in seconds to find you the best rate—that way, all you have to do is pick the plan that works best for you.
Congrats again on your soon-to-be new car, and drive safely!”
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings