Auto manufacturers have steadily increased the size of pickup trucks to meet growing consumer demand. Full-sized pickups like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado and Ram 1500 dominate the market. Buyers prefer larger trucks for their imposing looks, off-road capability and cargo space.
However, this trend raises the risks for everyone else on the road. Consumer Reports warns that bigger trucks with higher hoods and greater weight are particularly deadly in crashes involving pedestrians and smaller vehicles.
Fatality statistics outline a disturbing trend
The year 2020 saw a significant rise in traffic fatalities and injuries, reflecting a troubling pattern on U.S. roadways. Despite a decrease in miles traveled due to the pandemic, the statistics are alarming:
- Over 42,000 people died in traffic accidents
- 8 million people received serious injuries
- There was an 8% increase in fatalities from the previous year
- Pedestrian fatalities rose by 46% over the past decade
Despite fewer drivers on the road that year, law enforcement reported significant increases in speeding, distracted driving and other dangerous behaviors resulting in more severe collisions. Many of these accidents involved large pickup trucks and SUVs.
Looks (and dimensions) that can kill
Research shows the increasing size of pickup trucks has profound safety implications. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), vehicles with hoods higher than 40 inches are about 45% more likely to cause fatal pedestrian crashes than cars with lower hoods.
Taller trucks transfer more energy to a pedestrian’s hips and pelvis, increasing injury severity. Smaller pedestrians, such as children, face a higher risk of head injuries. Trucks are also more likely to push pedestrians down and run them over, a far deadlier scenario.
Agencies are slow to implement safety upgrades
In 2015, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposed strengthening safety standards, including adding pedestrian protections to its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
However, it has taken years to see any progress. Only recently has NHTSA mandated that all new vehicles, including pickup trucks, must have Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) technology by 2029. This delay means pedestrians and smaller vehicle occupants remain at a higher risk for deadly crashes with larger trucks for several more years.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a pickup truck, an experienced car accident attorney can help hold negligent drivers accountable and maximize compensation for your injuries.