Choosing a vehicle can be as personal as picking out a favorite outfit. But when it comes to safety, it’s worth digging into the data to see how your car choice might affect your risk on the road. For many people, the big debate is between SUVs and sedans; both have their perks, but how do they compare when it comes to crash risks and fatalities? This recent study by Therman Law will help you make an informed decision.
Are SUVs Really Safer Than Sedans?
SUVs have a reputation for being safer due to their size and height, and it’s true that in a crash, they often protect passengers better. However, there’s a flip side—SUVs are also more likely to roll over, especially during quick maneuvers or sharp turns. Rollovers are among the deadliest types of crashes.
Let’s look at the numbers. In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 42,514 motor vehicle crash deaths across the country. When broken down by vehicle type:
- Light trucks (including SUVs, pickup trucks, and minivans) were involved in 25,807 fatal crashes.
- Passenger vehicles (like sedans, convertibles, and hatchbacks) were involved in 20,049 fatal crashes.
But here’s the catch: within those categories, sedans were responsible for 15,757 of the fatal crashes, while SUVs were involved in 14,117. That means sedans made up a much larger share of passenger vehicle fatalities than SUVs did in the light truck category.
Illinois Mirrors the National Trend
In Illinois, motor vehicle crashes were the third leading cause of death in 2022, behind only heart disease and cancer. Here’s how fatal crashes in the state break down by vehicle type:
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- Light trucks: 740 (39.9%)
- Passenger vehicles: 648 (35%)
- Large trucks: 217 (11.7%)
- Motorcycles: 135 (8.4%)
- Other/specialty vehicles: 83 (4.5%)
- Buses: 10 (0.5%)
The data backs up what we see nationally, SUVs and sedans are the most common vehicles involved in fatal accidents, but sedans seem to be at a higher risk per vehicle type.
Safety Pros and Cons: SUVs vs. Sedans
Let’s break it down:
- SUVs offer better protection in collisions because of their bulk and structure. But they’re also more prone to tipping, which adds another risk factor.
- Sedans are less likely to roll over, but they don’t offer the same crash protection as larger vehicles. In a collision with a heavier car, sedan passengers are at a disadvantage.
One study found that when two cars collide and there’s a 1,000-pound difference between them, the person in the lighter vehicle has a 47% higher chance of dying. That’s a serious number to consider.
Your Car’s Color Might Matter Too
It might sound strange, but the color of your car can play a role in your safety. Dark-colored vehicles like black, gray, and blue are harder to spot on the road and have a 7% to 15% higher risk of being involved in a crash. Bright colors like white, yellow, and orange stand out more and are generally considered safer.
Tips for Staying Safer—No Matter What You Drive
Whether you’re team SUV or team sedan, you can reduce your risk with a few smart habits:
- Maintain your vehicle regularly
- Use features like blind spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist
- Always wear your seatbelt
- Avoid distractions and drive sober
- Adjust your driving style for weather and traffic conditions
SUV drivers should take extra care on curves and slow down sooner to account for longer stopping distances. Sedan drivers should be cautious around larger vehicles and consider investing in advanced safety systems.
Final Thoughts
Both SUVs and sedans have safety strengths and weaknesses. What’s most important is how you drive, how well you maintain your vehicle, and the decisions you make on the road. Use the data to guide your choice, but let your driving habits keep you safe.