Are Trucks Safer in a Crash?
It’s a common belief that trucks are safer in a crash just because they are larger vehicles. However, this is not always the case for others on the road, as larger vehicles have more force at play, which could be disastrous for standard passenger vehicles.
So, are trucks safer in a crash? Not necessarily. It depends on a variety of factors. Whether or not the truck is loaded, traveling at a high rate of speed, and the amount of other vehicles around them all play a significant role.
Many believe trucks are safer because of their larger capacity; however, there has been much debate on whether or not they are safer than traditional passenger cars. Some critics of larger trucks believe that they might be more difficult to handle in emergencies, making them more prone to accidents.
Let’s examine this in more detail below so we can determine whether a truck or a standard passenger car is safer in an accident. We’ll discuss safety, size, and weight and compare crash outcomes between trucks and a standard car.
Size and Weight: Do They Offer More Protection?
A truck’s size and weight provide more protection for the occupants of the truck in the event of a collision. Larger and heavier vehicles can better absorb the force of the impact, reducing the severity of the injuries to the driver. Due to its size and mass, trucks are less likely to sustain serious damage in the event of an accident, keeping the occupants safer.
Believe it or not, the elevated seating position in trucks can help drivers avoid accidents by allowing them to see the road better. However, this is not without its potential risks for others on the road.
Studies actually do show that trucks are safer in accidents than regular passenger vehicles. However, there are some concerns surrounding their size and weight. A large truck cannot stop as quickly as a standard car, making it more prone to collisions, especially in inclement weather or uneven road conditions.
Truck Design Features That Enhance Safety
Modern trucks are safer and more technologically advanced than ever before, making them safer for their occupants and for the other vehicles on the road. One of the best features of modern trucks are advanced crumple zones, which are designed to absorb and dissipate energy from a collision. This reduces the overall force transferred into the cabin in the event of a collision, keeping the occupants safe. Additional safety measures, such as reinforced steel frames provide a strong and robust structure that helps keep the cabin intact in the event of a collision.
Technological advancements such as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) also help the driver maintain control of the truck. ESC applies the brakes to each individual wheel if it detects any skidding, which helps prevent rollover accidents. Features such as lane departure warning systems, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking all help drivers, and everyone else on the road, stay safe.
Comparing Crash Outcomes: Trucks vs. Passenger Vehicles
When it comes to comparing crash outcomes for trucks vs. passenger vehicles, the difference between the two can be drastic. Due to the size and weight of trucks and the weight disparities between trucks and a standard passenger vehicle, trucks often fare better in collisions. Trucks have higher ground clearance and absorb most of the impact, resulting in the truck driver and other occupants faring better than those in the other smaller vehicles.
However, passenger vehicles are significantly disadvantageous here, as occupants are at a greater risk of injury or, in some cases, a fatality. When a truck and passenger vehicle collide, the force of the collision is transferred to the occupants of the smaller vehicle, making the impact much more dangerous for them.
This is due to trucks’ higher center of gravity and significantly greater height difference compared to passenger vehicles. In some cases, the smaller vehicle will actually slide underneath the truck, known as underride, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Due to the differences in the size and weight of these two vehicles, it makes cautious driving even more paramount on our roads.
Safety Myths and Facts About Trucks in Accidents
It’s important to debunk a few safety myths about truck accidents that could lead to some misunderstandings about the risks involved. One of the most common misconceptions is that the size of the truck always protects the occupants of the vehicle; however, this is not always true. Although trucks fare better in collisions, the truck driver and passengers still are at significant risk of injury. In most cases, due to their size, trucks are more prone to rollover accidents, which could cause serious injury to the occupants, and could also be fatal, especially if the truck was traveling at a high rate of speed or carrying a heavy load.
Another myth is that truck drivers are less likely to be found at fault for an accident, however, this is not always the case. Truck drivers work long hours, meaning that fatigue and distractions could cause accidents. It’s also important to take into account the maintenance of the truck, as it is a quite common issue that some companies do not properly maintain their trucks.
Legal Considerations in Truck Accident Cases
When it comes to the legalities of truck accident cases, there are a number of different aspects to consider. There are usually multiple parties involved, so it could be daunting to try and chase down the insurance company. The trucking company, the trucking company’s insurance, and the driver’s insurance are just some of the parties you will have to chase down to begin the process of filing suit.
It’s important to speak to a trusted attorney before dealing with any insurance companies. Better yet, have your attorney speak to the at-fault party’s insurance for you. Your attorney will know how to deal with the insurance adjuster’s tactics and work to settle for an amount that will cover your damages, helping you get your life back.
Injured in a Truck Accident? Contact Mutrux Firm Today!
Now that you know more about the safety of trucks in a crash, get in touch with Mutrux Firm if you’ve been involved in an accident. Our dedicated team is ready and able to help you throughout the entire process and get you the compensation you deserve.
Get in touch with us at (888) 550-4026 for a free consultation. We look forward to helping you get your life back on track.
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