Are Electric Vehicles Really Safer Than Conventional Cars?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are charging ahead in popularity as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cars. Billed as a cleaner, more advanced option for environmentally-conscious consumers, EVs present an exciting technological shift that is reshaping our roads. However, despite their many benefits, questions remain about their safety compared to conventional cars. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, we’ve represented countless victims of car accidents, a growing number of which involve electric vehicles. In this article, we’ll explore the safety features of electric cars and whether they genuinely offer a safer ride.

Understanding Electric Vehicle Safety Features

Electric vehicles have cutting-edge safety technologies designed to protect occupants and pedestrians alike. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), which monitor road conditions and driver behavior, are standard in many models, helping to prevent collisions before they occur.

Features like automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control contribute to the perception that EVs are safer. Manufacturers tout their high-tech capabilities and robust construction as evidence that electric vehicles are poised to lead the way in automotive safety.

Unique Risks Associated With Electric Vehicles

While the statistics suggest that EVs may be involved in fewer accidents, they present unique challenges that can complicate crash scenarios.

Can’t Hear Them Coming

One significant concern regarding electric vehicles (EVs) is their silent operation, which can pose a substantial risk to pedestrians who depend on auditory cues to detect the approach of vehicles. This lack of sound can make it difficult for individuals, particularly those with visual impairments, to gauge the proximity of an approaching EV. Although recent regulations now mandate that new electric vehicles emit sounds at low speeds to help alert pedestrians, millions of older models still lack this essential feature.

Increased Weight

Another risk is the sheer weight of electric vehicles. Their substantial batteries make them heavier than their conventional counterparts, potentially increasing the severity of crashes. In collisions, this added weight can result in greater impact force, posing a higher risk to pedestrians and occupants of lighter vehicles.

Moreover, the current safety infrastructure is not fully equipped to manage the weight of these vehicles. Guardrails and barriers, traditionally tested against vehicles weighing around 5,000 pounds, are now being challenged by heavier electric vehicles. CBS News reports that the University of Nebraska is testing this issue, demonstrating that a 7,000-pound electric pickup caused significant damage when it crashed into concrete barriers, pushing them back 50% more than expected. This scenario underscores the urgent need for updated infrastructure to safely accommodate the increased weight of EVs, as inadequate containment can lead to more severe accidents.

Untamable Battery Fires

One of the most pressing safety concerns with electric vehicles is the risk of battery fires. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs, can overheat and catch fire under certain conditions. These fires can be challenging to extinguish and may re-ignite hours or even days after the initial incident.

First responders often face difficulties managing these battery fires due to a lack of specialized training. The unique risks associated with these fires necessitate new safety protocols, presenting ongoing challenges for emergency services.

Autonomous Features Gone Wrong

Electric vehicles often incorporate semi-autonomous features like Tesla’s Autopilot, promising to revolutionize the driving experience by reducing human error. However, these systems are not foolproof and can be misused. Reports of accidents involving vehicles with engaged autonomous features have raised concerns about their reliability and the potential for misuse.

These autonomous systems rely on sensors and software that are still being refined. Driver complacency or over-reliance on these features can lead to dangerous situations where accidents are more likely to occur. As these technologies continue to advance, it will be crucial to address these risks.

Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott Has Your Back

If you or a loved one has been in an accident involving an electric vehicle, working with experienced attorneys who understand the unique challenges these cases present is essential. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, we have over 40 years of experience representing victims of car accidents and fighting for their rights.

Our team knows the ins and outs of electric vehicle safety and can help you navigate the complexities of these cases. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case with our knowledgeable attorneys. Remember, when it comes to electric vehicles and safety, it’s always better to be proactive than reactive.