26 Jul Vehicles Are Getting Bigger, But Does That Make Them Safer?
If you’ve thought that vehicles are getting bigger, you’re not imagining things. Many major automobile manufacturers have begun to produce larger vehicles, even with traditionally smaller models like sedans. A big reason is safety, with many drivers feeling more secure driving a larger truck or car. But does size actually correlate to safety? Our auto experts at National Auto Collision Centers are here to share what you need to know about larger vehicles and your safety on the road.
Why Bigger Vehicles Are Gaining Popularity
A larger vehicle means more than a bigger trunk and room for more passengers. It often means a higher driving position, increased cargo space, and the perception of enhanced safety. Plus, many companies market their larger vehicles with features that promote a sense of security, such as advanced driver assistance systems. But do these features really translate to better safety on the road?
Crash Safety and Larger Vehicles
One of the primary reasons people assume bigger vehicles are safer is their performance in crash tests. Generally, larger vehicles tend to fare better in frontal crashes due to their greater mass and extended crumple zones. The extra space allows for better energy absorption during a collision, which can reduce the impact on occupants.
However, this advantage primarily applies to collisions with smaller vehicles. In crashes involving similarly sized vehicles or stationary objects, the size advantage diminishes. Additionally, larger vehicles can pose greater risks to occupants of smaller vehicles in multi-vehicle crashes.
Handling and Stability
While larger vehicles may offer advantages in certain crash scenarios, they can also present challenges in terms of handling and stability. Bigger vehicles typically have a higher center of gravity, which increases the risk of rollover accidents. SUVs and trucks are particularly susceptible to rollovers, especially when taking sharp turns or swerving to avoid obstacles.
Advanced stability control systems and improved suspension designs have reduced some of these risks, but you should still exercise caution. The sheer size and weight of larger vehicles can make them harder to maneuver in emergency situations compared to smaller cars.
Visibility and Blind Spots
Another aspect to consider is visibility. While the elevated seating position in larger vehicles can provide a better view of the road ahead, it can also create blind spots. The larger dimensions can obscure the view of smaller vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, increasing the risk of accidents during lane changes or reversing.
Modern vehicles are equipped with technology like blind-spot monitoring, rearview cameras, and parking sensors to combat these issues. However, you should never rely on these systems completely. Always keep your focus on the road!
Contact National Auto Collision Centers Today
Whether you prefer larger vehicles like pickup trucks or smaller sedans, your safety mainly comes down to staying alert and driving responsibly. And if you have been in an accident, you can always rely on our experts at National Auto Collision Centers – we can handle repairs with all size vehicles. Contact our Valencia Rd. location at (520) 889-2536 to learn more about our auto repair services.