SUVs have become very popular over the last decade, and pedestrian accidents involving these vehicles have increased significantly. You may want to learn why SUVs pose such a threat to pedestrians and what you can do to avoid getting injured by one in Minnesota.
The statistics
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, pedestrian accidents involving SUVs increased by 81% from 2009 to 2016. This increase is a lot greater than pedestrian fatalities involving many other vehicles.
SUVs are more likely to throw pedestrians forward than cars, according to a report. Over the years, pedestrian accidents involving SUVs have become much more serious as more of these vehicles hit the road.
Why are pedestrian accidents with SUVs so deadly?
SUVs pose such a threat to pedestrians because they have higher ground clearance than cars, making it highly likely for them to cause severe injuries or fatalities by striking a person’s upper legs and torso. Additionally, SUVs have a higher center of gravity than many cars, which means that pedestrian accidents involving them are more likely to cause fatal injuries.
SUVS have larger blind spots that make it difficult for their drivers to see what’s in front of them while driving. SUV drivers are also less likely to realize that they have hit a pedestrian because of the height difference between the pedestrian and vehicle.
What can you do to avoid pedestrian accidents with an SUV?
If you are a pedestrian, be sure to stay off the road and away from sidewalks so that drivers see you. If there is no sidewalk or if it’s too narrow for pedestrians, walk facing traffic because cars will have more room to see you and stop in time. You should wear bright clothing, preferably reflective. You should also teach children about pedestrian safety so that they know how to stay safe when SUV drivers aren’t paying attention.
Getting into an accident with an SUV can be a frightening experience. Pedestrian accidents with these vehicles can better be avoided if you follow these safety tips.