Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries in the United States. However, research shows that injury risks are not distributed evenly across genders. A Verity Now study of 70,000 traffic accidents showed that women were 73 percent more likely to be injured and 17 percent more likely to die in collisions.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted an extensive study into gender differences in motor vehicle accident injury risks. The study concluded that women were more likely to suffer injuries in car accidents partly due to the types of cars they drive, which are usually smaller vehicles than men. Many of the accidents in the study were side-impact or rear-end collisions, which are more dangerous in smaller vehicles that provide less protection for drivers and passengers.
Researchers also believe part of the issue is that auto manufacturers rarely use female dummies for safety crash tests because regulators only mandate male dummies for tests. This means cars are being tested with safety features designed with only male bodies taken into account; consequently, they may be less effective.
There are steps that can be taken to make sure both genders are equally protected on the road. Auto manufacturers need to start using female dummies when testing vehicles for safety concerns. In addition, vehicle manufacturers should continue developing newer technologies like automatic emergency braking systems that can help reduce risks during side-impact collisions and other dangerous scenarios. Also, drivers must always wear their seat belt when on the road.
Even with these steps, however, you could still find yourself in a crash. This could lead to life-altering challenges and a reduced ability to earn a living. As a result of your accident, you may be entitled to compensation to help you shoulder the medical expenses and financial losses.
It is clear from this research that there is still work to be done when it comes to making sure all drivers, regardless of gender, are equally protected against serious injury or death when involved in a crash. Anyone can suffer injuries in a car accident.
Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Can Help After a Collision, Regardless of Your Gender
If you have been injured in a car crash, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak with our experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC to discuss your options. Call us at 215-569-8488 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and Abington, Pennsylvania, as well as Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.