The popularity of the midsize SUV continues to grow. Midsize SUVs are one of the most sought-after vehicles, but are midsize SUVs safe for drivers and passengers? This is an important question, especially considering the latest car accident fatality numbers. In 2021, crash fatalities rose by 10.5 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This is the highest jump in accident deaths in half a decade.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has been testing vehicles since the mid-1990s. In 2021, the IIHS improved how midsize SUVs are evaluated. Specifically, the IIHS focused on updating its midsize SUV side crash tests since nearly a quarter of all car accident fatalities involve a side impact.
The updated midsize SUV crash tests focus more on making sure that the passenger side is protected. Some of the changes made to the test include:
- The use of smaller crash test dummies to represent children and smaller adult passengers who are more likely to be seriously or fatally injured.
- The use of a 4,200-pound barrier instead of a 3,300-pound one.
- A striking force of 37 mph rather than 31 miles per hour.
- A more accurate striking angle based on the height of the midsize SUV.
In addition to putting the midsize SUVs tested through a side-crash test, the IIHS evaluated all models on crashworthiness from other angles, including roof strength and moderate overlap front collisions.
Which Midsize SUVs Passed the IIHS Testing?
Ten of the 2021 and 2022 vehicles tested received “good” marks. Two were deemed “acceptable.” Among those midsize SUVs were models from top manufacturers: Ford, Lincoln, Nissan, Toyota, Buick, Volkswagen, Mazda, Subaru, Infiniti, and Chevrolet.
It is worth noting that these findings from the IIHS are quite positive and hold weight when considering which midsize SUV to purchase. They show that many midsize SUV makers are taking safety to heart. Otherwise, so many vehicles would never have passed with such high ratings.
Even with high safety ratings, collisions can still happen. If you experience a crash, you should take several steps. Call 911 immediately to alert the authorities, and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you think you are uninjured, set up an appointment with your primary care provider to be certain. Many injuries take a few days to become apparent.
Document the accident scene by taking photographs. Photographs help prove your case to the insurance provider or if you need to file a personal injury suit. These steps put you and your car accident lawyer in a better position.
Chester County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Work With Drivers and Passengers Hurt in Midsize SUV Crashes
Medical bills can add up quickly after a crash with an SUV. If you need legal assistance after a collision, one of our Chester County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help. Call us at 610-565-3701 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Chester County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County.