Smaller Cars are Not as Safe as Larger, Heavier Cars

According to a report published on Edmunds.com, smaller cars are not as safe as larger cars. There is far more to this finding, though. The report discussed the factors used to compare vehicles side-by-side and how safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) do not compare across vehicle categories. It also cleared up the lingering myth that SUVs are unsafe because of the risk of rollovers. Despite this category having its own set of potential safety issues, it is the safest vehicle category listed in the report.

Safety ratings should be a priority when choosing a car, but buying a car with high safety ratings should not lull you into a false sense of security. How you drive your car, which includes your attentiveness and ability to adjust your driving to your environment, are also significant factors that can affect your likelihood of being involved in an accident.

Heavier Cars Don’t Get Pushed as Far on Impact

A heavier car does not get pushed as far in a collision, which can protect its occupants from injury by impact with other vehicles and stationary objects. On impact, the heavier vehicle generally pushes the lighter one backward and can put pressure on its occupants, potentially causing severe injuries.

Longer Hoods and Larger Crush Zones Mean More Protection for Occupants of Larger Vehicles

A bigger vehicle has bigger parts, which is what makes them safer for drivers and passengers than smaller vehicles. A longer hood means more space between the driver and the engine, larger crush zones mean a greater buffer between the occupants and the other vehicle involved in the collision, and a taller vehicle height means a lower or even eliminated chance of being pulled under another vehicle.

Bigger is Not Necessarily Always Better

Larger vehicles tend to fare better in collisions than smaller vehicles with comparable safety features – an important point to keep in mind when you are shopping for your next vehicle. Many individuals are under the impression that because older cars tend to be larger and heavier than modern cars, they are safer than modern cars. This is not true. Older cars lack many of the safety features that come standard in newer cars like front and side airbags, electronic stability control, and LED headlights. When you are shopping for a new car, always look for specific safety features and comparisons between models, not just size differences. This is true whether you are buying a new or used vehicle.

Draper Law Office Helps Car Accident Victims Seek the Compensation they Need for their Damages

A car accident can leave you suffering from a severe injury. If you are facing financial damages as a result of your car accident, you could be entitled to seek compensation for them through a PIP claim or a personal injury claim. To learn more, contact Draper Law Office today by visiting us online or calling 866-767-4711 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our team.