Sport utility vehicles are popular among consumers, and they will remain top sellers for many years to come. These vehicles prove incredibly convenient for those transporting cargo and passengers, but SUVs pose some unique dangers. Pedestrians won’t find themselves in a good position when involved in a vehicle collision, but things could be far worse when hit by an SUV instead of a car. California civil lawsuit dockets might reveal the dangers and severity of such accidents.
SUVs vs. pedestrians
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performed a study that should concern pedestrians, bicyclists, and other commuters concerns. Of 79 crashes occurring in Michigan alone, it appears SUVs inflict more harm than cars.
The clear danger that an SUV presents centers on its size and mass. While drivers and passengers experience potentially increased safety thanks to the frame & wait, anyone walking or jogging could suffer terribly if hit by such a vehicle. Even if the SUV only bumps into someone and knocks them down, the force could cause a skull fracture or spinal injury. Sadly, some accidents result in fatal injuries.
Injuries and accidents
Speed also factors into how dangerous an SUV can be to pedestrians. The faster the vehicle travels, the greater the possible injury risk. That said, the SUV does not need to travel above the speed limit to cause harm. However, as with other auto-pedestrian accidents speeding and other moving violations committed by an SUV driver may lead to a collision.
An SUV driver could be negligent in many ways. Two examples are not looking when backing out of a parking space or operating the vehicle while under the influence. Anyone hurt by a negligent driver might explore their legal options for compensation.