Have you ever wondered why certain types of cars are more likely to cause accidents than others? This is a question that comes to every driver’s mind. When we consider buying a new car, we often focus on its looks, mileage, and features, but safety is just as important. According to a recent survey in India, 78% of road accidents in the country occur in major cities and involve certain car models. Popular models like the Hyundai i10, Maruti Suzuki Swift, and Maruti Dzire top the list. The Kia Soul EV and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited ranked highest for accident frequency in a Visual Capitalist analysis of the U.S. This statistic makes us wonder whether driver error alone causes accidents or whether the type of vehicle also plays a role.
Small Cars and Their Risks
Small, compact cars are often very popular with new drivers and small families. They are economical and easy to drive in crowded cities. But did you know that this very reason makes them more prone to accidents? Small cars weigh less, and in the event of a collision, they offer less protection than larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks. A simple law of physics holds: heavier objects are less impacted by impact. Therefore, in a collision between a small car and a larger car, passengers in the smaller car are more likely to suffer serious injuries. Furthermore, many older or entry-level compact cars lack modern safety features like lane-keeping assist or automatic emergency braking systems, which help prevent accidents.
Sports and High-Performance Cars
When we think of sports cars, we often think of high speed, sophisticated design, and powerful engines. These cars are for adrenaline-seekers. However, their high speed and powerful engines make them risky. Owners often drive these cars at high speeds, which is a major cause of accidents. The design of these cars gives them excellent road grip, but when a driver exceeds their limits, they can also lose control. According to a study, drivers of sports cars tend to drive more aggressively, which increases the risk of accidents.
SUVs and Trucks
Large and heavy vehicles like SUVs and pickups have their own mixed effects. On the one hand, passengers in heavier vehicles are relatively protected in a head-on collision because the vehicle’s mass and structure distribute the impact energy. On the other hand, these same heavy vehicles can pose a greater threat to smaller vehicles or pedestrians. Some SUVs and pickups are at a higher risk of rollover, which increases the risk in the event of a side impact or overturn. Overall, vehicle size and weight have a significant impact on the outcome of a collision.
Car Color and Accidents
Did you know that the color of your car can also affect the likelihood of an accident? It may sound strange, but it’s true. Dark-colored cars, such as black, gray, or brown, are less visible at night or in bad weather. This reduces their visibility, making it difficult for other drivers to see them. In contrast, brightly colored cars, such as white, yellow, or orange, are easily visible in all conditions. Research has shown that white cars are considered the safest because they are the least likely to cause accidents.
Not Just the Vehicle, the Driver Is Also Responsible
While we’re discussing the type, size, and color of vehicles, we shouldn’t forget that the biggest cause of accidents is driver negligence. Drunk driving, speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, or simply ignoring traffic rules. All of these factors can lead to accidents involving any type of vehicle.
What You Can Do: Practical Steps
Your first step when choosing a vehicle should be to prioritize safety ratings and safety features. Regular maintenance, proper tire condition, and brake checks increase your safety. You should focus fully on the road while driving and avoid using your mobile phone. Reducing speed in bad weather and always wearing your seatbelt are small but effective steps. These behaviors reduce both the likelihood and consequences of accidents.
