As gas prices soar, drivers become more and more concerned about environmental concerns, and parking spaces get smaller and smaller, it is no surprise that smaller cars are becoming more popular not just in Southern California but throughout the country. While they make sense from a short-term perspective, do they offer the long-term safety that you would expect from a larger vehicle?
A recent study looked at just that question. Read on to find out how small cars fare in car accidents. Then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 if you have been involved in a car accident. We can help you find the best solution to your needs.
Some Small Cars Are Almost as Safe as Larger, Heavier Vehicles
A report completed by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety has some comforting news for people who love small cars but want to prevent injuries: Some small cars are as safe, or nearly as safe, as larger, heavier vehicles that many associate with safety.
The IIHS ranked vehicles for safety in a number of categories. They looked at how the cars performed when they were hit from the sides, hit from the front, hit from the rear, and involved in a rollover accident. Any vehicle that scored a “Good” in all four categories (good being the best possible result) were designated as a top safety pick by the IIHS. The top safety picks include models from many manufacturers, including Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Subaru, and Hyundai.
Many Top Safety Picks Come in Two-Door Hatchback and Four-Door Sedan Models
Looking at the list for the safest cars, many of the mare offered in both four-door sedan models and two-door hatchback designs. The IIHS is clear in that they recommend the sedans versus the hatchbacks for anyone concerned about the best possible crash protection. That said, the difference between the two is actually rather small.
A four-door sedan may be a great choice for its slightly higher safety numbers as well as the fact that it is simply more convenient for many people – especially families – to have easier access to the backseat. However, for families who stick with SUVs and other large vehicles solely because they believe they are safer, a four-door sedan can offer the same level of protection.
Nothing Can Protect Everyone from All Car Accidents
While the key is to find a vehicle that can help you prevent getting into an accident and make you safer if you are in an accident, there is nothing that can be done that will prevent 100% of accidents. If you are injured in an accident in which someone else was at fault, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
