Latest Reports Highlight the Dangers of Large Vehicles on America’s Roads

Large vehicles, like SUVs and pickup trucks, dominate America’s roads, accounting for the majority of new car sales. While these vehicles offer drivers a sense of safety, a growing body of research shows they may actually be making our roads more dangerous—especially for pedestrians, cyclists, and occupants of smaller vehicles.

Recent findings from The Economist and MotorTrend highlight troubling trends: despite advances in car safety technology, America’s roads are getting deadlier, with large vehicles contributing significantly to the risks. At Bottaro Law, we’re committed to helping Rhode Islanders stay safe and advocating for those injured in accidents involving large vehicles.

The Role of Large Vehicles in Rising Fatalities

According to The Economist, SUVs and pickup trucks now account for more than 80% of new vehicle sales in the United States. Their growing popularity comes with serious consequences:

• More Pedestrian Fatalities: The elevated front-end design of SUVs and trucks is more likely to strike a pedestrian’s upper body or head, increasing the risk of severe injuries or fatalities.
• Blind Spots and Reduced Visibility: The height and design of large vehicles often limit drivers’ ability to see pedestrians, cyclists, and even small children crossing in front of or behind them.
• Higher Crash Forces: In collisions with smaller vehicles, the sheer size and weight of large vehicles result in far more devastating outcomes for those in the smaller car.

The MotorTrend article further emphasizes how road deaths have increased in recent years, despite the widespread adoption of modern safety technologies like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. These tools are not enough to offset the risks posed by the size and weight of large vehicles.

Why Rhode Island’s Roads Are Especially Vulnerable

Rhode Island is a densely populated state with many older, narrow roads that were not designed to accommodate today’s oversized vehicles. The risks associated with large vehicles are magnified on our local streets due to several factors:

1. Narrow, Urban Streets: Rhode Island cities like Providence, Newport, and Cranston are filled with tight, winding roads. Large vehicles often struggle to navigate these areas safely, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
2. Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Many Rhode Island communities are designed for walking, with busy crosswalks and bike lanes. SUVs and trucks can be especially dangerous in these environments, where pedestrians are at a higher risk of being struck.
3. Winter Weather Challenges: Many Rhode Islanders choose SUVs and trucks for their perceived ability to handle snow and ice. However, these vehicles are not immune to accidents, and their heavier weight can make it harder to stop on slick roads.
4. Tourism Traffic: From summer beachgoers to autumn leaf-peepers, Rhode Island’s roads see heavy traffic from out-of-state drivers, many of whom are behind the wheel of larger vehicles unfamiliar with our roadways.

Staying Safe on Rhode Island Roads

Whether you’re driving a large vehicle or sharing the road with one, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident:

For Drivers of Large Vehicles:

• Be Extra Cautious in Pedestrian Areas: Always check for pedestrians, especially when making turns or reversing. Remember, your blind spots are larger than those of smaller vehicles.
• Drive Defensively: Maintain a safe following distance and avoid speeding, especially in inclement weather or crowded areas.
• Use Safety Technology Wisely: Features like backup cameras and collision alerts are helpful, but don’t rely on them entirely—stay alert at all times.

For Pedestrians and Cyclists:

• Stay Visible: Use crosswalks, wear bright clothing, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of large vehicles.
• Avoid Blind Spots: Never assume a driver can see you, especially when they are turning or reversing.

For Other Drivers:

• Give Large Vehicles Space: Avoid tailgating SUVs or trucks, as they require longer distances to stop. Pass them with care, ensuring you’re not lingering in their blind spots.
• Anticipate Slow Reactions: Large vehicles take longer to maneuver, so be patient and cautious around them.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Large Vehicle Accident

Accidents involving SUVs, trucks, or other large vehicles can cause devastating injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your rights. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Always get checked by a doctor, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.
2. Call the Police: A police report is critical for documenting the details of the accident and determining fault. In Rhode Island, body camera footage from responding officers can also provide valuable evidence.
3. Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who saw the crash.
4. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: At Bottaro Law, we specialize in representing Rhode Islanders injured in auto accidents. Our team has extensive experience handling cases involving large vehicles, and we know how to navigate the legal process to get you the compensation you deserve.

How Bottaro Law Can Help

At Bottaro Law, we’ve seen the devastating impact that accidents involving large vehicles can have on victims and their families. With decades of experience in personal injury law, we are committed to helping our clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our No Fee Guarantee means you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. We’ll handle the legal details so you can focus on healing.

A Safer Future for Rhode Island’s Roads

As large vehicles continue to dominate America’s car market, it’s crucial to understand their risks and take steps to protect yourself and others on the road. By staying alert and making smart choices, we can all help make Rhode Island’s roads safer.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident involving a large vehicle, don’t wait—contact Bottaro Law for help. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (401) 777-7777 or fill out our online form for a free consultation.