Every driver knows certain behaviors can increase the risk of getting into a crash: drinking, texting and falling asleep are all behaviors that most drivers try to avoid because of how dangerous they are.
However, even if you avoid these risky practices while driving, you could still be at an increased risk of crashing based on the type of car you drive.
“Retirement vehicles”
Older drivers often drive cars that they are comfortable driving. Many seniors stick to driving one car for many years, often believing that an older, well-maintained car is safer than a new one. They also may have little or no desire for a vehicle with the advanced technology regularly advertised in new cars.
Thus, older drivers are often driving older cars. Sources report that these so-called “retirement vehicles” are typically smaller than cars and trucks made today. They also have fewer safety features, like blind-spot warnings and additional airbags, making drivers more likely to crash and get seriously injured.
Defective vehicles
Motor vehicles are complex machines. They must be properly designed, manufactured, maintained and repaired, or they can malfunction and put motorists and others in danger.
Unfortunately, millions of cars have defective parts. These parts can include faulty:
- Steering systems
- Accelerators
- Brakes
- Airbags
- Tires
A vehicle with these or other defects can be highly dangerous and prone to malfunction.
Small vehicles
Compact sedans, motorcycles and other small vehicles can be more likely to be in a collision than larger cars for a few reasons.
First, visibility can be a concern. Smaller cars can be harder to see when they are in a blind spot or behind larger vehicles.
And in the case of motorcycles, their size makes it more difficult for others to judge their speed accurately.
Further, small vehicles are typically lighter than SUVs and trucks and have less crash protection than larger automobiles.
Avoiding crashes in every vehicle
Even if you drive one of these cars, you can still protect yourself and avoid serious car accidents. Driving defensively, staying alert and avoiding reckless driving habits can keep you safer and reduce the risk of a crash, regardless of the type of vehicle you drive.
