Thinking of Buying a Compact Car? Highway Loss Data Institute Encourages You to Think Again

 Posted on November 19, 2015 in Car Accidents

By Phil Terrazzino

In an effort to reduce their gas prices and their impact on the environment, many Americans have turned to compact cars. However, the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) suggests that you reconsider. This year, they analyzed 2012 and 2014 vehicles according to how frequently they received filings of personal injury claims. The results, released in October, consistently show just how dangerous compact cars can be.

Why Compact Cars Tend to Score Poorly

A basic understanding of the law of physics is all it takes to see why compact cars score lower in crash tests and the analyses such as those done by HLDI. Typically, compact cars have less horsepower and are overwhelmingly smaller than other vehicles on the road. When they are in an accident—or when they are at risk of colliding—compact cars are less apt when it comes to maneuvering out of trouble, and they usually suffer more damage. As a result, the occupants of these vehicles are at a higher risk of suffering a personal injury.

Worst Scoring Compact Cars

Although the list of the ten worst vehicles included a few mid-sized cars, most were classified as small, compact, or micro cars. The ones with the worst scores included:

• Mitsubishi Mirage
• Nissan Versa
• Nissan Versa Note
• Kia Forte
• Mitsubishi Lancer 2WD
• Kia Rio

Other vehicles that were not classified as compact cars that scored poorly were the Dodge Avenger, the Nissan Rogue Select 4-Door 2WD, the Chrysler 200, and the Nissan Cube.

High-Performance Vehicles Scored Surprisingly Well

In direct contrast to the poor scoring of compact cars, high-performance vehicles performed surprisingly well in their lack of personal injury claims. Although some of this may relate to their higher horsepower, HLDI also pointed out that these types of vehicles are typically driven less frequently which, when taken into account, could dramatically decrease their odds of being in an accident.

Contact an Experienced Automobile Accident Lawyer

Car accident victims often fail to realize just how complex their cases truly are. Injuries may be more extensive than they seem and insurance companies attempt to downplay the matter and low-ball settlement amounts. Do not let this happen to you. Have your case carefully examined by a personal injury lawyer.

At Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC, we fight aggressively to help our clients receive the compensation they deserve. We carefully investigate the facts, examine all of the evidence, and stand up for the rights of our clients. To see how we can assist in your case, schedule a consultation with our skilled Chicago car accident attorneys. Call us today at 312-605-8800.

Source:

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/model-691756-average-small.html