There has been a clear trend in American vehicle design in recent years, with vehicles increasing in size. This has mostly occurred with pickup trucks and SUVs, which have grown much larger. Modern designs also tend to use blunt or flat front ends rather than slanted or rounded designs.
While many consumers appreciate these design changes, the reality is that they put pedestrians in significantly more danger. For instance, one study looked at accidents involving these vehicles and found that when the hood height was 40 inches or more, the vehicle was 45% more likely to cause a fatal pedestrian accident. Even on shorter vehicles, blunt front ends are more likely to knock pedestrians down, where they can be killed or seriously injured in front-over accidents.
Shorter vehicles with slanted front ends still get involved in pedestrian accidents, but they are statistically more likely to cause non-fatal injuries like broken legs, rib injuries, etc.
Blind spots
Another significant issue with these tall vehicles is that they create large blind spots. Drivers often can’t see over their hoods. If a child is walking in the crosswalk after getting off the school bus, for example, a driver turning right may not see them at all. This leads to many accidents that are just as surprising to the driver as they are to the pedestrian – but it is still the driver who is considered negligent, regardless of the deficiencies in vehicle design.
Seeking financial compensation
Blind spots and poor modern vehicle designs are just one reason for car accidents, and pedestrians can suffer serious injuries as a result. If you’ve been injured, be sure you know how to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other costs.
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