The good news is that most of the new cars available for drivers in California include high-tech features designed to improve safety and minimize injuries in the event of an accident. However, certain cars and trucks offer more crash protection than others, according to insurance loss statistics reported by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI).
Not surprisingly, smaller and lighter cars tend to be less safe. Among all models, the HLDI data shows that four-door micro vehicles have the highest claims frequency. Mini-cars fared slightly better, coming in just ahead of smaller four-door cars. Vehicles associated with the lowest claims frequency are large pickup trucks and luxury sport utility vehicles.
Among individual models, small sports cars have the highest claim severity rate while small luxury cars have the lowest severity rate. In regard to personal injury claims frequency, smaller vehicles are among the worst offenders. One reason cited is that such cars are often selected by younger, less experienced drivers because they are more affordable. The majority of cars with the fewest personal injury claims are actually sports cars. However, it should be noted that these are often driven fewer miles and typically carry one passenger.
No matter what type of car or truck is involved in an accident, it’s advisable for a hurt victim to seek input from a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can review the details of such incidents to determine if negligence may have been involved. A lawyer may also review results from accident investigations and consider the involved vehicle’s safety history when making recommendations on how to proceed.