Love them or hate them, electric vehicles are more popular than they have ever been! With more and more individuals making the choice to go electric, it is no longer a rare occurrence to see an EV on the streets.

As EV’s become more and more popular, concerns have been raised as to just how safe they are. Factors like highly flammable batteries, increased weight, and lack of noise while running, all contribute to a general suspicion regarding the safety of these vehicles.

Here is a breakdown of each of the features mentioned (that are characteristic of EV’s) and how these features could affect your safety.

Highly Flammable Batteries

The range and life expectancy of a battery are important factors individuals consider while purchasing a new electric car. Something that is often not considered regarding the battery in an EV, is how hard it will be to extinguish if it catches fire following a crash.

While the frequency of fires in EV’s is significantly lower than in gas powered cars, they can potentially be more destructive and toxic, when they do occur, due to a process called thermal runaway. Of the EV’s involved in fires, the data suggests that collisions are the leading cause.

The batteries inside these cutting-edge automobiles are highly flammable. So flammable, there have been reports that it takes over 8 hours to extinguish one if it catches fire. If your EV catches fire, it is very important that you get away from the fire and immediately contact 911, to ensure it does not hurt you, other individuals, or damage property.

Increased Weight

Outside of the fire hazard associated with electrical vehicle batteries, the mass these vehicles carry with them into a collision is also a concern. EV’s tend to be heavier than their gas-powered counterparts, primarily due to the batteries that these vehicles are equipped with to operate.

With a Tesla sedan weighing nearly 1500 pounds more than that of a comparably sized gas-powered Toyota, one could imagine how these two vehicles would fare in a collision with one another (if travelling around the same speed). It only takes an elementary school-level understanding of physics to realize that the Tesla, with far greater momentum going into the accident, would crush the Toyota and likely fare much better.

This means if you are not in an electric vehicle, you should be especially wary of getting into an accident with one. Chances are, it is heavier than your gas-powered car and will likely demolish your ride severely in the event of a high-speed collision.

Decreased Running Noise

One final safety risk associated with EV’s is the lack of noise these vehicles produce while running. Compared to gas-powered cars, EV’s are all but silent. Many have even begun to feature fake engine noises, to simulate the sound of a gas-powered car while running. While some may be all for quieter, more decibel-friendly cars, this may pose a risk to others on and around the road.

Due to the lack of noise, EV’s can more easily sneak up on pedestrians and cyclists, who often subconsciously rely on hearing to help navigate their surroundings. With a lack of audio input from oncoming traffic, pedestrians and cyclists may be more likely to miss a car headed in their direction—a mistake that could unfortunately be fatal.

How this Affects your Claim Following an Accident

Following an accident, your insurance provider becomes your biggest enemy. They will do everything in their power to avoid paying you the compensation you are entitled to.

If you do find yourself in an accident, it is important to get yourself an injury attorney who is well versed with electric vehicles. Having knowledge of the technology used in EV’s is vital to understanding all the complexities and nuances of a modern car accident. This knowledge will allow your attorney to take on the insurance company bullies and get you the benefits you need!

Get David Get Paid

If you or a loved one was recently in an accident, don’t hesitate in reaching out to injury attorney David Femminineo, today. David and his team have countless years of experience dealing with auto accidents and electric vehicle liability issues. Femminineo Law will relentlessly take on anyone standing between you and your compensation following an accident. Give us a call at 855-65CRASH or visit our website at getdavidgetpaid.com!