Car accidents: The size of the car may determine how safe one is

A study done over a three-year period by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has once again confirmed findings relating to the safety of smaller cars. Car accidents in which small cars were involved led to the most driver fatalities. It has been documented that bigger cars offer greater protection to occupants than smaller car models.

While the findings may be worrisome for Illinois drivers of smaller cars, they can take solace in the fact that it was found that cars of all sizes performed better in the crash tests. According to the IIHS, this is a clear indication that there is a constant improvement in vehicle safety features. Unfortunately, there is only so much the improvements in design and safety technology of cars can prevent. While small cars do not seem to have a safety benefit, they do hold an economic benefit.

The reality is that many people cannot afford a mid-size or large car. While a smaller car may be the only vehicle one can afford, it does not mean that legal recourse after an accident caused by the negligence of another is unobtainable. Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means there are no initial costs to the client.   

The legal estate of Illinois victims of fatal car accidents have the choice to file a wrongful death claim against the party or parties deemed responsible for the accident. Claims for financial losses such as funeral and burial costs and loss of income may be made. Should it be proven that driver negligence was the root cause of the accident, a civil court may award a judgment for monetary damages to the plaintiff/s.          

Source: CBS News, “Mini and small cars have highest traffic deaths rates, IIHS report says“, May 25, 2017