There are countless ways that drivers can reduce their risk of accidents and injuries. Wearing your seatbelt, following speed limits, and driving defensively can save your life. However, many motorists forget that the vehicles they purchase can have a significant impact on their safety.
Modern vehicles come with safety features that challenge science fiction. Blind spot detection, crash prevention systems, and backup cameras have revolutionized the industry. In addition to finding a car with these technologies, buying a larger vehicle may reduce your risk of injuries or death if a collision happens.
Unfortunately, even the most advanced cars are not immune to accidents. If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Louisiana, contact an Alexandria auto accident lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC. We can evaluate your case and guide you through the claims process.
Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation. In the meantime, read on to learn why larger vehicles tend to fare better in collisions:
Small vs. Large Vehicles – Which Are Safer?
Large vehicles have several advantages over smaller models. They have longer hoods, so they have bigger crumble zones, which gives them the edge in frontal accidents. Also, due to their weight, heavier vehicles can push lighter cars backward in an impact, so there is less force on the occupants in larger automobiles.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Small Car Safety Innovations
Fortunately, consumer demand for gas-efficient vehicles has motivated manufacturers to boost the safety features of smaller cars. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, all vehicle size categories have seen a decrease in accident fatalities over the past six years. In no small way, this is due to innovative safety technologies.
According to Edmunds.com, some of the most influential safety advancements include:
- Tire pressure monitoring systems;
- Adaptive cruise control;
- Blind spot detection;
- Lane departure warnings;
- Rollover prevention systems;
- Dual-stage airbags;
- Emergency brake assist;
- Adaptive headlights;
- And backup cameras.
Deaths per Vehicle Category
According to a 2011 study by the IIHS, fatalities per million registered vehicles decreased significantly for the mini and small car categories. The same study found a 51-percent decrease in fatalities for midsize cars.
Sport utility vehicles are still the safest autos to drive. According to the IIHS, there were approximately 16 deaths per million drivers in midsize SUV accidents. The superior safety of SUVs has been attributed to their heavier weight, taller stature – which makes them less likely to slide under other vehicles – and recent advancements in rollover prevention.
Although large vehicles tend to fare better in accidents, new technologies for smaller cars are narrowing the safety gap. Unfortunately, all motorists are vulnerable to the reckless and negligent actions of other drivers.
If you were injured in a crash that another motorist caused, contact Morris Bart, LLC. An Alexandria car accident attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence, structure your claim, and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
