For many, convertible cars make a traditional method of transportation more fun. Convertible cars sport a casual demeanor, and when thinking of driving a one, most would picture themselves in a vacation-like setting. This being said, while an enjoyable vehicle, convertibles are still responsible for safely transporting their occupants. When considering the structure and design, many could question whether a convertible car is worth the seemingly obvious safety risks; however, recent data shows convertible cars are safer than they have been given credit for.
Common Misconceptions
Convertible cars are just like any other motor vehicle in that they carry some degree of inherent risk. Operating any vehicle can result in a serious, if not fatal, accident. While vehicle design significantly impacts safety, convertible cars were found to pose no greater threat to vehicle occupants than non-convertible vehicles, even given their absence of a permanent roof. According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), late model convertibles are no riskier in safety than non-convertible vehicles when analyzing crashworthiness and corresponding accident fatality rates.
Larger vehicles are prone to one of the most serious accidents in which a person can be involved – a rollover. The IIHS-affiliated Highway Loss Data compared insurance claims made for both vehicle types (convertible and non-convertible) and found few differences in the circumstances leading to the accidents. About a quarter of fatalities in both vehicle types were due to rollovers. In the event of a rollover accident, 21% of convertible vehicle drivers were ejected from the vehicle, compared to 17% of non-convertible vehicle drivers being ejected. Additionally, the analysis found convertible versions of vehicles actually had lower crash and fatality rates than those of non-convertible versions of the same style vehicle.
The Safest Convertible Car
While the analysis found convertibles were no riskier, the findings do not mean convertibles are safer than other vehicles. The safest convertible car is one that is following all traffic rules and regulations on the road. It’s important that convertible car drivers keep in mind that while the absence of a permanent roof does not necessarily mean that the vehicle will be more prone to an accident, safe driving practices should still be exercised.
In addition to following posted traffic laws, drivers can ensure their safety by following routine vehicle maintenance schedules as well as checking vehicle recall lists for possible auto defects. Among the many dangers a vehicle and driver can encounter on the road, defective auto parts can cause serious injury or even death in the event of a collision. Defects like faulty airbags, seatbelts, and tires can be more threatening to the driver of a convertible car than the absence of a permanent roof.
Corpus Christi Car Accident Attorneys
All drivers deserve to arrive safely at their destinations, regardless of what type of vehicle they’re operating. Convertible cars do not carry a greater risk of accidents than other types of vehicles; however, when one is operated by a distracted driver or uses defective auto parts, occupants are at risk of suffering serious injury or death. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a Texas car accident, contact Corpus Christi car accident attorney John Flood today to discuss your case at no cost. There is limited time to file a claim following a Texas motor vehicle crash, so don’t delay. Contact us today.
