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Auto Collisions – Does Car Size Matter?

No one wants to find themselves fall victim to a car collision. Your vehicle’s size does matter if you’re involved in a major collision that could be quite devastating. However, in minor collisions, the size of your vehicle could make a difference as well depending on what side of the vehicle received the trauma. Not only is an accident emotionally draining, it can drain your bank account as well. If you are involved in an automobile accident, the thing to remember is to keep things in perspective. If no one was injured in the accident, your vehicle did its job. There are many factors that fall into play staying safe in many sized vehicles. We’ve listed some for your reference as awareness whether you own a car or are looking to buy.

Smaller Cars – Greater Risk
When experts evaluate safety, a car’s size and weight are both determining factors, along with  the structural strength and material of the vehicle. These are important contributors to what’s known as a vehicle’s.

Smaller vehicles tend to weigh less and will not do well when you are involved in a collision with a vehicle outside of its weight class.

A heavier car has typically has greater momentum and requires more energy to slow down than a lighter car. If you are involved in an auto accident, passengers in a lighter car will experience more of the collision’s force than passengers in a heavier car, which can also increase the risk of injury.

Newer cars are typically safer than older cars because of the features they now include or can be added on to the base model package.

• Side, rear, side-curtain and front airbags.
• Electronic stability control, which stabilizes your car if it spins out of control and minimizes rollovers.
• Back-up sensors and backup cameras to prevent rear-end collisions.
• Blind spot warning, which uses a camera or sensor to alert the driver of other vehicles in their blind spot as they change lanes.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) explains that while cars of all types are much safer now than before, the smallest and lightest cars have fatality rates around twice as high as the biggest and heaviest cars.

Safest Type of Vehicle
So, what is the safest type of vehicle? The type of car that works the best will vary by your needs and that of your family. Perhaps you have small children and safety is a top concern, or maybe you’re looking for a durable car for your new teenage driver. If you’re concerned about the environment, choosing a car that’s more environmentally friendly will be of paramount importance.

For the safest vehicles available today, check out the current IIHS top picks!

No matter what vehicle you choose, Spirit West Rapid Refinish will be here for you in the event you are involved in a collision.

For immediate assistance, contact Spirit West Rapid Refinish at 636.386.8060 Monday through Friday between 9am-5pm, closed 12pm-1pm or stop by our convenient location at 14643 Manchester Rd. Ballwin, Missouri 63011.