Electric Car ChargingDriving an electric car can save you tons of money in fuel. They need less maintenance with no oil changes too. It’s no wonder EVs are getting more popular than ever. Government tax credits add to their appeal too. But, how safe are electric vehicles (EVs) in car accidents? And, which electric cars have the best crash test ratings? 

IIHS and NHTSA Top Safety Picks for Electric Vehicles

In the United States, two main organizations provide crash test ratings. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a government agency. It is overseen by the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT). The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent, nonprofit organization. It is funded by insurance companies.

You can look at how both organizations rate the crash safety of almost any vehicle. Combining their data, you can get a better sense of which cars are the safest. Some of the top safety picks include the following electric vehicles:

  • Audi e-tron
  • Audi e-tron Sportback
  • Hyundai IONIQ 5
  • Kia EV6
  • Tesla Model 3
  • Tesla Model Y
  • Volkswagen ID.4
  • Volvo XC40 Recharge
  • Volvo C40 Recharge

All the EVs above received either the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating or the IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Several also received five-star safety ratings from the NHTSA. Both agencies engage in rigorous testing for all vehicles. This helps to give you peace of mind about which car to buy with safety in mind.

safest electric carsTop Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Thinking of going beyond just full electric vehicles (BEVs)? Want to look at some hybrid cars (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) too? Some top picks include these hybrid cars and trucks:

  • Ford Explorer Hybrid
  • Honda Accord Hybrid
  • Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
  • Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
  • Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
  • Toyota Camry Hybrid
  • Toyota Sienna
  • Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  • Volvo S60 T8 Recharge
  • Volvo XC60 Recharge

Most Common Injuries in Electric Car Crashes

Many electric vehicles feature a range of advanced safety features. Driver-assist technologies can help avoid accidents in the first place. Blind spot warning systems, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking are some examples.

Electric vehicles can and do get involved in car accidents, of course. But, they generally keep passengers safer in collisions compared to gas-powered cars. The rates of injury claims by EV drivers and passengers are 40% lower than gas cars. If the occupants of an EV do get hurt, though, the types of injuries are similar. Whiplash is a frequent example.

Lower body injury claims are common, due to the added weight of an electric vehicle. EVs often have their batteries in the bottom center, resulting in a lower center of gravity. This may contribute to certain injuries in the case of a collision.

What to Do if You’re Hurt in a Car Accident

No one wants to find themselves in an automobile accident. But, if you find yourself in such a situation, you’ll want to prepare to take the best steps:

  • Call law enforcement and your medical service provider, if needed. Your health and safety should be your top priority.
  • Document the crash scene to the best of your ability, including photographs.
  • Look for witnesses and get their contact information.
  • Notify your car insurance company to let them know you were in an accident.
  • Contact a qualified attorney who can work in your best interest.

It is important to call a lawyer, especially if you’ve been hurt in a crash. You’ll want sound legal advice for speaking with insurance companies. What settlement is fair? The legal process with personal injury can be complex. It is invaluable to have an experienced attorney in your corner who can help.

Christopher Pracht
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Christopher Pracht is an experienced attorney at Pracht Injury Lawyers.
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