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Why might a “safer” vehicle be more dangerous?

Auto manufacturers have done a fantastic job promoting SUVs over the past decade or so. They are now the biggest selling category of vehicles, even though most owners never go off-road – which is what these vehicles were originally designed for.

One of the biggest factors behind this marketing success story is that manufacturers have convinced people that driving an SUV is a safe option. The problem is, that is not quite true. 

SUVs are more lethal to others than the average car

Imagine you are crossing the road and notice a vehicle coming towards you. Maybe the driver failed to stop at the light, or maybe you forgot to look. Either way, if you cannot get out of the way in time and the driver cannot brake in time, that vehicle is going to hit you.

If you could choose what that vehicle was, what would you opt for? Would you pick an average-sized family sedan where you might hope to be flung onto and over the hood? Or would you pick a big, hulking SUV? When you put it like this, you can see that the SUV is not going to be safer for you, it’s going to be far more dangerous. 

The dangers of SUVs are down to several things:

  • Increased height of front end: Makes it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles or low cars. Also causes the vehicle to strike others higher up their body where the vital organs are, even if they are in a car.
  • Increased mass: The vehicle will crash with more force.
  • Thicker roof pillars: While designed to prevent roof collapse if the vehicle rolls, they obstruct more of a driver’s vision than average ones.

While it is important to feel safe in your vehicle, drivers must consider the dangers their vehicles pose to others. Anyone injured by a driver will need to learn how to claim compensation.