Do SUVs Cause More Accidents?

There is no shortage of Sport Utility Vehicles (also known as SUVs) on the road in America. In fact, more than 52% of passenger cars purchased in 2021 were SUVs. The idea behind this popular vehicle type was to merge together the sought after features of other cars into one: the towing capabilities of a pickup truck, the comfort of sedans and the space of a minivan.  From urban cities to rural areas and everywhere in between, it is impossible to escape these vehicles. However, their safety is commonly called into question. It has left many wondering, “Do SUVs cause more accidents?” 

The Dangers of Driving an SUV

The auto industry has boasted that SUVs are safer vehicles to drive because of their size and weight. However, they are not invincible. SUV accident statistics show that SUVs are more likely to rollover in the event of a car accident compared to other vehicle types. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that in 2021 rollover crashes accounted for 21% of occupant deaths in cars, but it accounted for 38% of occupant deaths in SUVs.

There is a structural reason for this increased chance of rollover when compared to smaller vehicles. SUVs are designed with a high center of gravity which reduces overall balance and stability. This can result in an SUV tipping over and rolling before drivers are able to realize what is happening. 

SUV rollover accidents can be caused by a variety circumstances, including:

• Hydroplaning
• Turning at high speed
• Driving on loose gravel
• Hitting a guardrail
• Bumping a curb

Since a rollover increases a person’s chance of ejection, it also puts occupants at a greater risk of car accident seat belt injuries. This can range from minor bruises and contusions to more serious fractures and abdominal injuries. If you’ve been involved in a rollover SUV accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact a personal injury lawyer to determine what to do next. 

Who is Most at Risk in SUV Accidents

SUVs have earned a reputation as a “family” vehicle. In 2023, SUVs held five of the top nine spots for Best Cars for Families according to the U.S. News. While they are often chosen to accommodate growing families, it means that more children and expectant mothers will be riding in them. Whenever there is a minor child involved in a car accident , they are at an increased for injury and death. In 2020, 607 child passengers ages 12 and younger were killed in motor vehicle crashes in the United States and more than 63,000 were injured. 

Unfortunately, children who are not even born yet are also at an increased risk. Research indicates that a fetus is five times more likely to die as a result from a traffic crash during the nine months of the mother’s pregnancy than during the first nine months of a baby’s life. For any woman involved in a car accident while pregnant, it is critical to seek medical evaluation immediately. After they have received the proper care, it is smart to contact a car accident attorney. 

What To Do in the Event of an SUV Accident

Whether or not you know the answer to “Do SUVs cause more accidents?” does not matter in the event you experience an SUV crash of your own.

Even the most cautious and careful drivers are sometimes put in a situation out of their control that results in a car accident. If that happens to you and your family, you want to consult a knowledgeable and experienced family car accident lawyer to help you determine the next steps. Avrek Law is here to help.  With more than 50 years of combined experience resolving cases in favor of clients who were wrongfully injured, Avrek Law has recovered more than $1 billion in compensation for injury victims in more than 45,000 cases. Contact us for your free consultation to learn more!

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