Are Electric Vehicles More Dangerous in a Crash?
Vehicles operated solely on electric power are becoming more and more common. Vehicle manufacturers are shifting more towards electric vehicle production, with some estimates forecasting that 40% of all passenger car sales in the US could be electric vehicles by 2030.
But, there persists an idea that electric vehicles are more dangerous in a crash than regular vehicles. Is this true? We wanted to explore this question of electric vehicle safety, particularly as the total number of these vehicles on the roadway increases rapidly by the day. If you were injured by an electric vehicle, a Chicago car accident attorney can examine the facts of your case and walk you through the best options moving forward for your situation.
Electric Cars Explained
Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their enhanced environmental benefits and advancements in technology. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs rely solely on electric power, which is stored in large battery packs. These vehicles offer numerous advantages, including reduced carbon emissions, lower fuel costs, and quieter operation. EVs are equipped with high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, which provide the energy needed to drive the vehicle.
As EV technology continues to evolve, so do concerns about their safety in collisions. One primary area of concern is the potential risk posed by the vehicle’s battery during and after a crash. While electric cars are equipped with multiple safety features designed to prevent battery-related accidents, incidents involving battery fires have garnered significant attention. Despite these concerns, many electric vehicles perform exceptionally well in crash safety tests, comparable to traditional vehicles. EV manufacturers, such as Tesla, Nissan, and Chevrolet, are continuously working to improve the safety features of their vehicles.
Number of Electric Cars Registered in Illinois
As of recent reports, there has been a steady increase in the number of electric vehicles registered in Illinois. According to the latest data from the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office, the state has seen a rapid growth in EV adoption. In 2023, Illinois had approximately 70,000 electric vehicles registered across the state, a figure that is expected to rise significantly in the coming years as more consumers transition to electric transportation.
Illinois has also implemented several initiatives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. This includes tax incentives, rebates for EV purchases, and the expansion of charging infrastructure across the state. The Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act aims to have 1 million electric vehicles on the road by 2030, making Illinois a leader in EV adoption in the Midwest. These efforts align with national trends as the U.S. government pushes for more sustainable transportation options.
A Junkyard Fire – Indicative of Bigger Problems
EV fires, particularly those involving Tesla vehicles, have made the news plenty of times over the last few years. You have probably seen some of the new stories. Perhaps you saw a story about a Tesla catching fire and then giving firefighters a hard time at the scene of the incident.
A notable incident involving a Tesla Model S highlights the potential dangers of EVs in crashes. The car, sitting in a junkyard after a collision, spontaneously caught fire due to its lithium-ion battery. This event underscores the inherent risks associated with these batteries, known for their high energy density and volatility. Firefighters faced a challenging scenario as the battery reignited multiple times, requiring extensive efforts to extinguish the fire.
This is a not uncommon story you likely have seen about electric vehicles. But is the hype about the dangers misleading?
Electric Vehicle Safety
Lithium-ion batteries pack massive amounts of energy into small batteries, and when these batteries catch on fire, they are harder to put out. However, electric vehicle makers have created safety protocols and installed various sensors, fuses, and circuit Breakers to disconnect batteries when a collision occurs. These batteries are also kept cool by circulating coolant.
However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted safety studies comparing traditional internal combustion vehicles to electric vehicles, including analyzing collision impact results. The studies found that electric vehicles performed just as well as comparable internal combustion models and even earned key safety awards. In fact, information provided by the Highway Loss Data Institute states that collisions involving electric vehicles result in fewer injury claims, with supplemental data showing that the additional weight of the vehicle batteries actually absorbs much of the impact of the crash.
The Legal Perspective on Electric Car Accidents
Electric vehicles bring unique considerations to the table when it comes to accidents and legal claims. While the laws governing electric vehicle accidents are generally the same as those for traditional vehicles, the involvement of an electric vehicle can introduce complications. For instance, accidents involving electric cars may include the added risk of battery fires or electrocution, which could impact the severity of injuries or property damage.
In the case of an accident involving an EV, determining liability can be more challenging, particularly if the crash was caused by a malfunction in the vehicle’s electric system or battery. As electric vehicles continue to evolve, legal frameworks will need to adapt to accommodate these new challenges.
Liability Considerations
Liability in an electric vehicle accident is determined similarly to traditional vehicle accidents. In Illinois, the party responsible for causing the accident is generally held liable for any resulting damages. This could include the driver of the EV, the driver of another vehicle, or even a third party, such as a pedestrian or cyclist.
However, there are specific considerations in EV accidents that could affect liability. For example, if an electric vehicle’s battery catches fire after a crash, the vehicle manufacturer could potentially be held liable if the fire was caused by a defect in the battery. Additionally, electric vehicles contain complex electrical systems, and a malfunction in these systems could lead to accidents. In such cases, the vehicle manufacturer, or even the company that produced the battery, could be named in a lawsuit.
In multi-vehicle accidents, determining fault may be more complicated if an EV is involved. Expert analysis may be required to investigate whether the vehicle’s battery or electrical system contributed to the crash.
Insurance Considerations
When it comes to insurance coverage for electric vehicles, most policies mirror those for traditional vehicles, but there are some key differences to keep in mind. Electric vehicles can be more expensive to repair or replace due to their advanced technology and the cost of battery replacement. This means that insurance premiums for electric cars may be higher than for traditional vehicles.
In Illinois, insurance companies offer comprehensive and collision coverage for electric vehicles, but drivers should be aware of the potential costs involved in repairing an EV after an accident. Battery damage can be particularly costly, and insurance policies may need to cover these expenses. Some insurance companies also offer specialized EV insurance that includes coverage for charging equipment, roadside assistance for battery-related issues, and even reimbursement for renting a traditional vehicle while the EV is being repaired.
Additionally, Illinois law requires all drivers, including those with electric vehicles, to carry minimum liability coverage. This coverage is essential in case you are found at fault for an accident involving your EV. Given the complexities of electric vehicle technology, drivers should consider discussing their insurance options with an experienced agent to ensure they have adequate coverage.
How We Can Help You with Your EV Car Accident
If you have been involved in an accident with an electric vehicle, it is essential to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, we understand the unique challenges that come with electric vehicle accidents, including issues related to battery fires, complex electrical systems, and potential manufacturer liability. Our experienced attorneys can investigate the facts of your case, work with experts to determine fault, and help you navigate the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation by calling our office or filling out our contact form. We are here to help you with your EV accident claim and will fight to protect your rights every step of the way.
The Dangers Still Persist
The reality is that any type of vehicle can become dangerous, whether there has been a collision or not. Vehicle fires happened long before electric vehicles hit the roadways, but electric vehicles do pose entirely new challenges. However, new challenges do not mean “more dangerous.”
If you have been involved in a vehicle accident with an electric vehicle or have been affected by specific factors that could only affect those involved in electric vehicle incidents, we encourage you to contact an attorney today. These claims can be challenging and often cross the bridge between car accident cases and defective product claims. The injury attorneys in Chicago at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman are on your side.