Study: Kids No Safer in SUVs - GreenHybrid

Delta Flyer · #1 (**permalink**) 01-03-2006, 06:59 AM

This hardly sounds like breaking news, but this survey adds more evidence that SUV's are not as safe as many feel they are. It's that old Star Trek conflict: "Am I controled by logic or emotions?" Marketers are betting people will still do the irrational thing when it comes to the safety question.

CNN Story

zadscmc · #2 (**permalink**) 01-03-2006, 07:27 AM

The article states that safety effect is offset by the vehicle's tendency to roll.

However, I *believe* that we, as hypermilers, conduct ourselves in vehicles much differently than a typical driver. We watch our speed. We are more aware of the road conditions. Therefore, we *avoid* situations that may cause accidents and thus rollovers.

On a recent trip to SW Pa, I drove the 324 miles in my FEH, rarely touching the speed limit of 65 (unless down hill) averaging 31.4 mpg. With a bubble luggage carrier on top of the car. Fully loaded.

The last time I did that trip, I rushed and pushed through the entire trip and got 25,4 in much more favorable weather conditions.

Less speed, more MPG, less chance of a rollover, IMO.

Delta Flyer · #3 (**permalink**) 01-03-2006, 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zadscmc

...However, I *believe* that we, as hypermilers, conduct ourselves in vehicles much differently than a typical driver. We watch our speed. We are more aware of the road conditions. Therefore, we *avoid* situations that may cause accidents and thus rollovers....

It's not part of the vehicle design, but the mentality of many large SUV/power truck drivers seems less attentive than the car driver. My favorite pet peeve....

I'll be serious about the illustrated pose: This does not remotely look like control of the vehicle. If he had to suddenly dodge (pardon the pun - this is a Dodge Ram) someone, the chances would be greater he would overturn the steering wheel and lose control, maybe even rollover.

There has to be a lot of commericial big-rig operators with several millions of miles accident-free. They have a higher rollover design risk than SUV's, but like a lot of hypermilers at GH, they pay close attention to traffic conditions.

Delta Flyer · #4 (**permalink**) 01-04-2006, 08:04 AM

A CNN QuickPoll had 51% say they think their kids are safer in SUVs than cars. My take on the poll (if it is accurate) is a significant part of the population is responding emotionally, not rationally.