Are Bigger Vehicles Safer In An Accident?
Yes and no. Many people think that bigger vehicles, like pickup trucks and SUVs, are safer than smaller vehicles in case of an accident. However, while the size of bigger vehicles may provide certain advantages, they may not always be safer after an accident. From its safety features and physical structure, a vehicle’s safety may depend on various factors, based on the specific circumstances of the accident.
If you’ve sustained injuries in a motor vehicle accident, whether you or the other party was in a bigger or smaller vehicle, talk to a car accident lawyer in Greenville to learn how you can seek compensation from the liable party. Meanwhile, learn how the size of your or the other party’s vehicle may have played a role in the crash and how it may impact your case.
How Safe Are Bigger Vehicles In An Accident in Greenville?
Pickups, SUVs, and other larger vehicles usually fare better in crashes with smaller vehicles due to their sturdier frames, heftier weight, and higher profile. All these features effectively absorb more of the impact force. On the other hand, their center of gravity is also higher, which may increase the risk of rollovers. Likewise, their bigger size typically leads to more damage to smaller vehicles, which can cause life-altering or fatal injuries to the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
Factors That May Impact The Safety Of Vehicles After An Accident in Greenville
Various factors are considered when determining the safety of vehicles after an accident. These include:
The Type Of Accident
Whether it’s a head-on crash, side-impact collision, or a rear-end crash can significantly affect the severity of the accident, regardless of the size of the vehicle. For instance, in side-impact and head-on collisions, bigger vehicles may be safer than smaller vehicles because their bulk and height can protect them better.
Crumple Zones
While bigger vehicles have sturdier construction and more metal, not all of them have effective crumple zones (areas in the vehicle made for absorbing the impact force) compared to smaller vehicles outfitted with more advanced safety technology.
Driver Control And Behavior
Bigger vehicles can be more difficult to maneuver, especially in adverse weather or road conditions, which is particularly crucial after a crash when the driver is attempting to regain control of their vehicle.
Safety Features
Larger vehicles may have more space to house various safety features. However, their effectiveness is linked to the vehicle’s technology and not its size.
Additionally, while size can play a role in vehicle safety, it comes with significant legal implications. Bigger vehicles are more dangerous to pedestrians and drivers, which can impact fault and liability in a crash. For instance, if a pickup or an SUV severely damages a smaller vehicle, insurers and lawyers will focus on the potential impact force and sizable weight difference.
Likewise, if the crash involves a rollover or other safety failures, such as obstructed field of view or blind spots, which are specific to bigger vehicles, this will be considered when establishing negligence.
Let Our Seasoned Greenville Car Accident Attorneys Handle Your Case
Injured in a crash? Our Greenville car accident lawyers at Parham Smith & Archenhold LLC are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call 864-242-9008 to arrange your free consultation with our Greenville car accident attorney today.