The vehicle that tops the list could make Tiger Woods blush. The Buick Rendezvous — Woods is a spokesman for the vehicle — is ranked as the least safe vehicle available in the U.S. Its followed by other SUVs including Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, Jeep Liberty and Nissan Xterra.

“What makes a vehicle unsafe today is a lack of side-impact protection,” said Radar. “Whiplash is not a life-threatening injury, but head injuries — from side impact — are commonly life-threatening.”

The danger might be lessened somewhat in 2009, because next year Side Curtain air bags will be required in all SUVs. That alone should lessen risks. But for now, avoid this Buick, unless you want a Rendezvouz….with Death.