In automobile accidents the folks inside bigger vehicles are usually safer. One of the basic laws of physics is momentum conservation. This principle says the total combined momentum of two colliding objects prior to the collision is equal to the total combined momentum of the objects after the collision. Additionally, the transfer of forces to and from each object is influenced by the relative weight of each object.
In a collision the transfer of forces is inversely proportionate to the weight of the objects. This is why in a two car collision involving one small and one large vehicle, the smaller vehicle gets pushed harder than the larger one. Anyone who has seen a larger football player tackle a smaller one has seen this. The drivers and passengers of smaller vehicles are at higher risk of serious injury having absorbed more of the total force from the collision.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has collected and analyzed auto accident death rates for more than 30 years. Their data found that 15 of the 20 deadliest vehicles were small cars or minicars. The research also analyzed mileage data in terms of how many miles the different models were driven. Even when results were adjusted to include the mileage data the findings that drivers in smaller vehicles have a higher risk of death held up for the most part.
The principle of momentum conservation applies to any two objects that collide. Some of the most severe bodily injuries and highest risk of a wrongful death are accidents involving a car or truck striking a pedestrian or someone on a bicycle or motorcycle. Large differences in weight between the two colliding objects lead to a more drastic transfer of forces. Large vehicles may be safer for the occupants of that vehicle, but can be more dangerous for everyone else sharing the road.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an automobile accident, you shouldn’t have to fight the insurance companies alone. Contact Cooney Law Offices today to learn how we can help.