Skip to content 
Countless Texas drivers are concerned with their own safety, as well as the safety of their friends and family riding in the backseat. As such, many drivers often choose to purchase larger, heavier automobiles, such as trucks and SUVs, assuming that these vehicles will offer the most protection in the event of an accident.
Unfortunately, in doing so, these drivers may actually be putting themselves and their loved ones in harm’s way. In fact, studies have shown that, depending on the circumstances, bigger doesn’t always mean better in terms of occupant safety on public roads.
What Makes an SUV or Truck Unsafe?
If an SUV or pickup truck is far larger than the average passenger car, what could make it an unsafe option for a Texas family? For one, because trucks and SUVs have a higher center of gravity, the vehicles are placed at a higher risk of being involved in a rollover crash. As evidence to such, in the year 2000, SUVs had the highest rollover involvement rate of any vehicle type in fatal crashes, according to a PBS Frontline report.
Furthermore, because SUVs and pickup trucks can carry a much larger amount of passengers than regular cars, more lives are put at risk during a wreck, especially in a single-car, rollover accident.
SUVs and Trucks May Have Advantages in Accidents Involving Multiple Cars
Conversely, SUVs and trucks do seem to have an advantage over other, smaller cars in accidents that involve multiple vehicles. Specifically, a 2013 study from the University of Buffalo reports that drivers of smaller cars were 10 times more likely to be fatally injured in a crash with an SUV if the latter had a higher crash rating. Still, drivers of passenger cars were found to be four times more likely to die even if the SUV’s crash rating was lower. Here, data shows that drivers and passengers riding in an SUV will find more protection in wrecks involving smaller cars, regardless of the crash ratings of either.
Which Car Should You Choose?
In light of this, it is in the best interest of all Texas drivers to consider a variety of factors before purchasing a new family car. Buyers should examine crash ratings, but should not place the entire decision on this factor. Drivers looking to buy a car should look at crash reports and weight distribution of the truck or SUV. Most importantly, perhaps, buyers should take note of rollover crash statistics for each model they consider, as SUVs, trucks, and any higher vehicles, examining the vehicle’s center of gravity, are at a much higher risk of being involved in single-car, rollover wrecks.
Unfortunately, Accidents Do Happen
The brutal truth is that no matter how hard Texans work to keep our roads safe, accidents still occur. At Tate Rehmet Law Office, P.C., we believe in the power of the law, as well as our ability to help injured parties recover compensation after an accident on the roads. Don’t hesitate to contact one of our Sherman car accident attorneys for help filing an accident claim or personal injury lawsuit. Reach out to us for a free case review by calling 903-892-4440.
