Why Large Cars Are Killing More Americans Than Ever Before
Discover how America's obsession with big cars, SUVs, and trucks is leading to more fatalities on the road. Find out the hidden costs of oversized vehicles.
From The Economist, "Americans' Love Affair with Big Cars is Killing Them" explores the deadly consequences of America's obsession with oversized vehicles. From soaring pedestrian fatalities to environmental impacts, the article highlights the dangers posed by SUVs and trucks, which have grown in size and popularity.
“For every life that the heaviest 1% of SUVs and trucks save, there are more than a dozen lives lost in other vehicles.”
The Rise of the Big Car Phenomenon
Over the past few decades, the American automotive market has seen a significant shift from smaller sedans to larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks. Factors such as perceived safety advantages, higher seating positions, and lifestyle marketing have driven consumers toward these bigger options. Manufacturers have responded by producing more of these vehicles, further entrenching them in the market.
Safety Myths and Realities
Many drivers believe that being in a larger vehicle offers better protection in the event of a collision. While it’s true that occupants of big cars may experience less severe injuries in some crashes, this comes at a cost. Larger vehicles are heavier and have higher front ends, which can be devastating for smaller cars and especially dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists. The increased mass and elevated design can cause more severe injuries to others in an accident.
Impact on Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety
The surge in big car ownership has coincided with a troubling rise in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. The design of many large vehicles reduces driver visibility, creating sizable blind spots that can obscure people crossing in front of the car. Additionally, the higher front profile means that, in a collision, a pedestrian is more likely to suffer fatal injuries due to the point of impact being higher on the body.
Read the full article:
The Economist
