Car accidents are very common and can happen to anyone at any time. A recent report by Forbes revealed that 5,250,837 vehicle crashes occurred in the United States alone in 2020. It also places Arizona at number 12 of the most dangerous states to drive in in the U.S., based on the number of car accidents and resulting injuries and fatalities. Are electric car accidents just as common as those where older or traditional engine vehicles are involved? Do these cars offer more protection or do they subject drivers to more danger overall?
Understanding Electric Car Accidents
The answer to these questions is a complicated one and can vary for many reasons, most notably the make and model of the car and which features it may include. There are several important facts you should know about driving an electric car and the risks it may pose. Overall, there is little data that categorizes car accidents based on electric or non-electric vehicles and no clear evidence that you are either more or less likely to get into an accident when driving an electric car.
Distracted driving, violating traffic laws, or operating a car while under the influence can all result in a crash, no matter what type of car you’re driving. However, there are some additional risks you may want to consider when it comes to driving an EV.
Driver Behavior
There are a few studies that have taken an in-depth look at the driving practices of those who operate electric vehicles. Cambridge Mobile Telematics found that when people drive an EV, they can be over three times more likely to accelerate aggressively, a dangerous practice that can increase the risks of getting into electric car accidents. However, that same study found that when drivers operated both a Tesla and a traditional engine vehicle, they were 50% less likely to crash when driving the Tesla. The opposite was true for those who drove a Porsche EV, though.
Potential for Fire
The types of batteries used in electric cars are rechargeable, so they emit significantly less waste than engines that run on gasoline. However, that doesn’t mean these cars aren’t combustible. In fact, these batteries run a higher risk of catching fire than traditional engines during or after a crash.
Threats to Pedestrians and Other Vehicles
Typically, electric vehicles emit significantly less noise than other cars. While this is a good thing in terms of noise pollution, it can be a major safety concern. Pedestrians, cyclists, and those in other motor vehicles are less likely to notice the approach of an EV, which means serious accidents could occur.
What To Do After Electric Car Accidents
When you’re involved in a traffic incident, it’s important to act quickly. During electric car accidents, exit the vehicle immediately and steer clear of the battery because the potential for a fire is high. Once you and everyone involved are safe, it’s time to reach out to a lawyer who can help you contact your insurance company and take your next steps. The experts at Sargon Law Group are always ready to help clients who need help and guidance after a car crash. Contact us today to learn all that we can do for you in Maricopa County.