A new report highlights what many people have known for a long time; SUVs make our streets more dangerous. These oversized vehicles make the roads hazardous for everyone, especially those out on foot or on bicycles.
SUVs have been the fastest growing market sector in vehicle sales for some time. There is no doubt that some drivers need them due to the nature of their job or because they live halfway up a mountain. Yet, most people who drive them never leave paved roads.
Vehicle height plays a part in fatal accidents
Advertisers promote the increased height in large trucks and SUVs provide you with better views of the road and driving dangers. Yet, that vehicle height is what makes them so dangerous. When a low to the ground car hits someone, it pushes their legs out and throws them onto the hood. While this may still lead to fatal injuries, at least the crash victim still has a chance of surviving. However, when an SUV crashes into someone walking or biking, it will hit them on their torso where their vital organs are, increasing the chance of severe injury or death.
Because SUV and truck drivers are so high off the ground, and their vehicles may have long front ends, they may not see what is right in front of their vehicle, such as a person crossing the road or a child playing in a driveway.
If you or someone in your family is injured by an SUV driver, you likely face significant medical bills and injuries that will affect your family for years to come. While no amount of money can heal injuries, the compensation from a personal injury lawsuit can provide you with the financial means to make ends meet.