It is easy to understand why some people
choose to drive older cars. They might enjoy their vintage style, want to save
money, or think it's best for their child to drive an old car in their teens.
Though these reasons are valid, people who drive older models are at a
significantly elevated risk of fatal crashes.
Fatal Car Accident Statistics by Model Year
One of the best sources of car accident data
is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA). One of the many things the NHTSA has studied in recent years is the
fatality rates in new and old cars. The following is what they found:
1984 and earlier: 55%
1985-1992: 53%
1993-1997: 46%
1997-2002: 42%
2003-2007: 36%
2008-2012: 31%
2013-2017: 26%
As you can see, automobile safety has been
consistently on the rise for the last three decades, and cars that were made in
the previous ten years are significantly safer than older models.
Airbags
One of the top reasons why newer cars are
safer is the effectiveness of their airbag systems. Though older vehicles often
also have airbags, the total airbag system is not as comprehensive as newer
models. Car companies have been improving and tweaking these systems for
decades, and it is paying off. Crashes that would have been lethal for older
models are now not due to superior airbags.
Structure
Modern cars are structurally built in ways
that lessen the chance of severe injury. There have been three significant
design shifts over the years. First, the front and back of cars have been built
to crumple, which allows the momentum of the other vehicle to be transferred to
a part of your car that does not have passengers in it. Second, the structure
surrounding the passengers is very sturdy, keeping impact away from the people
inside. Lastly, modern cars are built to stay structurally sound when rolling
over.
Accident
Avoidance Systems
Aside from airbags and structure, cars built
recently also have added some high-tech safety features. Some of them include
auto-braking, backup cameras, and blind spot sensors.
Old cars can entice you with affordability, the safest way to stay
safe is driving a car that was made in the last ten years. They often have
better airbag systems, stronger structures, and have accident avoidance systems
to assist you. Each of these may decrease your chances of being involved in an
auto accident. Though safe driving is an
excellent method for avoiding collisions, having modern safety features is the
best way to make inevitable crashes less severe.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an Auto Accident call St. Louis Accident Attorney, Chris Hoffmann at (314) 361-4242.
