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Could Electric Vehicles Cause Greater Injuries and Damage in a Crash than Gas Vehicles?
Could Electric Vehicles Cause Greater Injuries and Damage in a Crash than Gas Vehicles?
Electric vehicles (EVs) have been increasing in popularity for several years and are now common on local roads and highways throughout Virginia. According to the International Energy Agency, there were about 1.4 million registrations for new electric vehicles in the U.S. in 2023, an increase of over 40% compared to the previous year. But while EVs offer a number of benefits for drivers and the environment, they are also raising some new concerns about safety. In this article, we’ll look at a few of the unique safety issues associated with car accidents involving electric vehicles.
Factors that Could Impact Damage and Injuries from Electric Vehicle Crashes
It’s worth noting that electric vehicles are not necessarily more dangerous overall than gas-powered vehicles. Several studies have suggested that the drivers and passengers of electric vehicles may be less likely to suffer injuries in a crash. However, EVs can still pose serious risks for other drivers, pedestrians, and even first responders.
Extra Weight from Batteries: EVs rely on rechargeable batteries to power the vehicle, and these batteries add several thousands of pounds of additional weight. Some electric trucks now weigh over 9,000 pounds, more than double the average weight of a large passenger vehicle, which is 4,400 pounds. The additional weight from batteries in electric vehicles can result in more severe property damage or injuries to individuals outside the vehicle in the event of a collision.
Rapid Acceleration: The ability of electric vehicles to accelerate rapidly can increase the likelihood of greater forces being exerted over shorter distances in the event of a collision, potentially leading to more severe impacts and injuries.
Autopilot Features: Distracted or reckless drivers who rely on the autopilot feature of some EVs to operate their vehicles can cause serious crashes. Concerns also exist about system errors or malfunctions that could put occupants and other road users at risk.
Reduced Engine Noise: Quieter engines in electric vehicles may seem like a good thing on the surface. However, the reduced engine noise can make it more difficult to hear an electric vehicle approaching, especially at low speeds, creating a safety risk for pedestrians and increasing the chance of accidents.
Fire Risks from Damaged Batteries: EV batteries damaged in a collision can pose a serious threat of fires or explosions, even days after the initial accident. Fires caused by the high-voltage lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles can also be more difficult to extinguish than a typical vehicle fire, adding complexity to post-collision safety concerns and increasing the risk of burn injuries.
Issues for First Responders: First responders may face challenges in dealing with crashes involving electric vehicles, as they may not have the necessary training or resources to address hazards specific to electric vehicle accidents effectively. For example, in addition to fire risks, damaged batteries in electric vehicles can create a risk of electrocution for individuals involved in a crash, requiring special precautions during rescue and recovery efforts.Â
The Result: Increased Risk of Injuries from Electric Vehicle Crashes
The factors listed above have one thing in common—they each increase the chances of serious injuries for people involved in electric vehicle crashes. Modern safety features and additional vehicle weight may provide some protection for EV drivers and passengers, but it is often the other drivers, pedestrians, or even first responders who suffer the most in such crashes.
Serious Injuries Require an Informed and Dedicated Advocate
Drivers, passengers, or pedestrians injured by motor vehicle accidents deserve fair compensation to aid in their recovery, no matter what type of vehicle is involved. At Hampton Injury Law, our team has spent decades fighting for the rights of injured people. We have a deep understanding of both the laws surrounding injury claims and the tactics insurance companies use when attempting to reduce a settlement. If you or a loved one have been injured in a crash involving an electric vehicle, contact our office to learn more about how we may be able to assist you.
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*Virginia Lawyers Weekly January 30, 2023 edition
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