Horror on the Highway: 10 Films Where Car Crashes Turn Deadly

Description: Directed by Steven Spielberg, this TV movie features a relentless pursuit by a menacing tanker truck, turning a simple drive into a life-or-death chase. While not a crash per se, the threat of one is ever-present.

Fact: The truck driver is never seen, adding to the film's eerie atmosphere. Spielberg shot most of the film in sequence to keep the tension real.

Description: A mysterious, black, driverless car terrorizes a small town, mowing down anyone in its path. This film showcases the horror of an autonomous vehicle gone rogue, making it a unique entry in the car crash horror genre.

Fact: The car used was a customized 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III. The film was originally intended to be a comedy but was turned into a horror movie.

Description: In this Stephen King adaptation, a 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine becomes a malevolent force, terrorizing anyone who gets in its way. This film is a classic example of how an inanimate object can turn deadly after an accident.

Fact: The car used in the film was actually a 1957 Plymouth, modified to look like a 1958 model. The film's director, John Carpenter, also composed the score.

Description: After waking from a coma caused by a car accident, Johnny Smith discovers he has psychic abilities. His visions lead him to confront a future serial killer, blending psychological horror with supernatural elements.

Fact: The film was directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror films. Christopher Walken's performance was critically acclaimed.

Description: A mysterious car appears in a small town, seeking revenge on a gang of carjackers. The film blends elements of supernatural horror with the aftermath of car-related violence.

Fact: The car in the film was a custom-built Dodge M4S, which was later used in other movies. The film's director, Mike Marvin, also wrote the screenplay.

Description: While not directly about a car crash, the film starts with a near-miss accident that sets off a chain of horrifying events involving a demonic creature. The suspense and terror build from this initial encounter.

Fact: The Creeper's truck was a 1941 Chevrolet COE, which was heavily modified for the film. The movie was inspired by a song by the same name.

Description: A young woman's premonition saves her and others from a horrific highway pile-up, but Death is not so easily cheated. This sequel focuses on the aftermath of the crash, with death finding creative ways to claim its victims.

Fact: The film features one of the most iconic scenes in horror cinema, the "log truck" sequence, which has become a meme.

Description: A prank involving a CB radio goes horribly wrong, leading to a terrifying chase by a truck driver. While not directly about a car crash, the film uses the threat of one to build suspense.

Fact: The film was originally titled "Roadkill." It was Paul Walker's first horror film.

Description: A young man picks up a hitchhiker who turns out to be a sadistic killer, leading to a series of horrifying events including a gruesome car crash. The film explores the psychological horror of being hunted.

Fact: The film was banned in Australia due to its graphic violence. Rutger Hauer improvised many of his lines, adding to the character's chilling unpredictability.

Description: A truck driver witnesses a murder and becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a killer on the open road. The film uses the isolation of the highway to amplify the horror.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of the "Walpamur Killer." It was remade in 2015 as "Road Games."