Many factors play a significant role in causing a motor vehicle accident, as well as the nature and extent of the resulting damages and injuries. The size of the vehicle, car, or truck can play a huge role in the outcome of a crash and can determine the likelihood that an occupant will be safe after a road accident. In general, larger vehicles are often considered to be safer for occupants than small cars. There are several reasons for that fact.
First, in a road collision involving a large vehicle and a smaller vehicle, basic physics generally favor the larger vehicle. However, smaller cars may have better handling controls, which could provide a driver with enhanced agility to avoid a serious accident. Small vehicles may benefit from being able to respond to dangers on the road more quickly, while larger vehicles may have better visibility.
Another unfortunate truth is that larger and heavier vehicles often cause extensive damage to smaller vehicles in a crash. During a collision, drivers and passengers within smaller vehicles may face more extensive injuries, even if the larger vehicle’s occupants remain uninjured.
Are Small Cars Safe?
While many people assume that larger vehicles or heavier cars are safer, that does not mean that smaller cars are unsafe and that they should not be considered road-worthy.
There have been many advancements in small cars in recent years, and most cars come with integrated modern safety features. These features can alert drivers of road dangers immediately and help to decrease the risk of injuries in crashes and collisions. Small cars are often beautiful and can have several advantages over larger vehicle models. Here are some of the unique features of small-sized cars:
- Better mileage: First, small cars usually have better gas mileage and fuel efficiency, making them more economic and environmentally friendly.
- Easy to drive or park: Small cars are often easy to navigate, especially through busy city streets. They are also much simpler to park, because they will take up less space than a larger vehicle.
- Lower costs: The production of smaller cars can require fewer materials, ultimately leading to lower costs for the buyer. Therefore, the vehicles may be cheaper and could involve fewer maintenance charges.
- Better performance: Compared to their larger counterparts, small cars can offer better performance and improved safety. It can be much easier to handle and accelerate quickly in a small car than in a large vehicle or a truck.
- Safety: If we talk about safety features, a small car can be just as safe as a full-size vehicle. These days, most cars come standard with various advanced features, such as anti-lock braking systems, parking sensors in the rear, and airbags. These features allow drivers to take more control over their wellbeing and help to prevent the most serious injuries in accidents.
Safety Measures to Decrease the Risk of Accidents
Following safety measures on the road can help to decrease the risk of accidents and resulting injuries. The following are some of the standard measures that drivers should take to avoid accidents and minimize the risk of serious injuries or damage.
- Drive a safe vehicle: If you are thinking about buying a new car, look for one with high safety ratings. Compare different models’ safety features and crash ratings to understand what each car manufacturer offers.
- Always have a safe driving attitude: Many car accidents are a result of driver negligence and bad behavior. Drivers should stay calm when on the road and focus their minds before driving on busy roads. A competent, safe driver should try to keep control over their emotions and behaviors when behind the wheel.
- Always wear a safety belt: Regardless of whether your jurisdiction requires it, you should always consider wearing a safety belt whenever you are in a motor vehicle. These safety measures are important for front-seat and back-seat passengers, as well, to decrease the risk of critical injuries in an accident.
- Avoid driving in extreme weather conditions: Driving in extreme weather conditions can increase the risk of becoming involved in a motor vehicle accident. Therefore, one should avoid navigating in extreme weather conditions when possible and always check the weather before getting on the road.
- Avoid drinking and driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most common types of driver negligence and regularly causes serious accidents. It is important to limit alcohol consumption before getting behind the wheel of a car or truck.
To protect yourself from unnecessary accidents and safeguard your rights in the aftermath of a crash, talk to an experienced Fort Myers car accident lawyer. Be sure that the attorney you choose has handled cases that are similar to yours and can provide comprehensive legal assistance. Berke Law Firm, P.A., has lawyers who have decades of experience and can handle a wide range of complex accident cases.