Electric vehicles (EVs) pose unique risks to both drivers and pedestrians. They are heavier and quieter than gas powered cars. Additionally, if an EV catches fire, they can be much harder to extinguish compared to an internal combustion engine (ICE) automobile.
In this guide, we will explain some of the more unassuming safety hazards of EVs and explain what you should do if you are involved in a car accident with an EV in Michigan.
Risks Associated with Electric Vehicles
Increased Weight
EVs are often heavier than comparable ICE vehicles. This is due to massive batteries that are used to power these vehicles.
With more weight comes more momentum. In a high-speed accident, an EV tends to carry much more momentum than an ICE vehicle. It follows that accidents involving EVs can be much more destructive than a typical accident.
Decreased Running Noise
Another danger posed by EVs is that they are virtually silent. This can be a serious hazard for drivers and pedestrians.
Studies suggest that reduced engine sound can cause drivers to underestimate their speed and in turn drive faster. EVs, which lack the engine sound of ICE vehicles, may be more prone to excessive speeds and high-speed collisions.
One more potential risk is that EVs can more easily sneak up on pedestrians and cyclists, who often rely on hearing to help navigate their surroundings. With a lack of audio input, pedestrians and cyclists may be more likely to miss an EV headed in their direction – a mistake that could unfortunately be fatal.
“Accidents involving EVs are unique and should be investigated immediately so that all potential parties can be held responsible,” notes David Femminineo, founder and personal injury attorney at Femminineo Law.
Highly Flammable Batteries
In addition to being very heavy, EV batteries can be seriously dangerous if they catch fire. Due to a process called thermal runaway, these large batteries can burn extremely hot and have been reported to take several hours or even days to fully extinguish.
Besides burning hot and being hard to extinguish, burning EV batteries produce toxic fumes that can pose serious health risks to responders and bystanders.
If you are involved in an accident with an EV that catches fire, you should get far away from the burning vehicle and contact emergency services as soon as possible.
Steps to Take Following an EV Accident
If you are involved in an accident with an EV, the steps you take afterward are crucial for your health, safety, and ability to pursue a legal claim. The recommended course of action following an EV accident is:
- Move to a safe location. Removing yourself from harm’s way should be your first priority after an accident.
- Assess your injuries and seek immediate medical attention if necessary. A prompt medical examination protects your health and also strengthens any potential insurance claims.
- Call 911 and ensure that a crash report is generated. This will likely serve as a key piece of evidence if you choose to pursue an insurance claim later on.
- Document the accident scene thoroughly. Take pictures of the vehicles involved in the crash, any injuries that you sustained, the road conditions, and any other details you think may be relevant.
- Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to get their insurance info along with a clear picture of their driver’s license.
- Exchange information with witnesses to the accident. Their testimony can greatly support your account of how an accident unfolded.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident. You may be entitled to no-fault benefits through your own insurance provider. Filing a claim right away helps avoid delays and denials.
- Contact an experienced Michigan car accident attorney. They can help review the facts of your accident and determine the types of compensation that you might be entitled to.
Talk to an Experienced Michigan Car Accident Attorney
Electric vehicles pose unassuming safety risks to drivers and pedestrians. They are heavy, quiet, and extremely dangerous if they catch fire. Understanding the dangers associated with EVs makes you a smarter and hopefully safer driver.
If you were injured in an accident involving an EV, you need an experienced Michigan car accident attorney in your corner. They can help you understand your rights and make the most of your claim(s) for compensation.
At Femminineo Law, we have assisted accident victims for over thirty years. We will be able to help you preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance, and ultimately build the strongest case possible.
Give us a call at 855-65CRASH or schedule a free consultation with Femminineo Law today.
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