Comparing the Safety Features of Small and Large VehiclesOctober 17, 2018
When two vehicles are involved in a car accident, and one vehicle is larger than the other, the smaller vehicle is likely to suffer most of the damage. As a result, the passengers of the smaller vehicle are likely to suffer more serious injuries than the passengers in the larger vehicle. However, it is not simply the size of the vehicle that determines which vehicle will sustain the most damage. Other factors, like center of gravity, age of the car, and the speed at which the motorist was driving all come into play.
Pros and Cons of Smaller Cars
Many people buy smaller cars because they tend to be less expensive, and they are more fuel efficient than larger cars and SUVs. Cars that are manufactured within the past 10 years also include advanced safety features such as side airbags, electronic stability control, and collision avoidance technology. In addition, smaller cars, including sports cars, that have a lower center of gravity and tighter suspension can handle unexpected maneuvers, or quick turns better than larger vehicles and SUVs.
However, smaller cars are at a disadvantage if they are involved in a car accident with a larger car or truck. For example, if a smaller car is involved in an accident with a truck, the car could slide under the truck, which can cause devastating, often fatal injuries to the occupant of the car. If two vehicles are in a head-on collision, a greater amount of force is imposed on the smaller vehicle, which can result in catastrophic injuries to the passengers, including neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Another factor to consider, particularly with sports cars, is the driving habits of the person who is behind the wheel. People who buy sports cars tend to driver more aggressively and take more risks.
Pros and Cons of Larger Cars and SUVs
Based on several traffic studies, SUVs are at the top of the list when it comes to safety. Thanks to their higher hoods and roofs, they are less likely to slide under a vehicle in a crash. In addition, larger vehicles that were manufactured more recently have larger crush zones, which means they tend to suffer less damage than smaller vehicles.
However, SUVs are at greater risk of roll-overs due to their higher center of gravity. This often occurs on highway entrance ramps and at sharp curves. In many cases, this can be avoided if the driver maintains a safe speed limit when approaching an exit or a curve in the road.
Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of All Types of Car Accidents
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you are urged to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. Whether you were in a small sports car or a large SUV, we will investigate the details of your accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries. We will seek the maximum financial compensation you deserve and ensure that your legal rights are protected. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.