Study Finds Electric and Hybrid Cars Pose Higher Risk to Pedestrians than Petrol and Diesel Vehicles
Are Electric and Hybrid Cars More Dangerous for Pedestrians?
A new study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health has raised concerns about the safety of pedestrians around electric and hybrid vehicles. According to the research, pedestrians may be twice as likely to be hit by an electric or hybrid car compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.
The study, which analyzed casualty rates on UK roads between 2013-2017, found that collisions with pedestrians were significantly more common with electric and hybrid vehicles, especially in urban areas. The researchers calculated that the average annual pedestrian casualty rate per 100 million miles of road travel was 5.16 for electric and hybrid vehicles, compared to 2.40 for petrol and diesel vehicles.
One of the key reasons cited for this increased risk is the quiet nature of electric and hybrid vehicles, particularly in urban environments where background noise levels are higher. This lack of noise can make it harder for pedestrians to hear approaching vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Additionally, the study suggested that younger, less experienced drivers are more likely to be involved in road traffic collisions and are also more likely to own electric cars. This combination of factors could contribute to the higher risk posed by electric and hybrid vehicles to pedestrians.
Despite these findings, the researchers emphasized that active forms of transport such as walking and cycling should not be discouraged. Instead, they called for measures to mitigate the safety risks associated with electric and hybrid vehicles, especially as governments move towards phasing out petrol and diesel cars.
It’s important to note that the study has some limitations, including a lack of data beyond 2017 due to an archiving glitch affecting National Travel Survey data. However, the findings highlight the need for further research and action to ensure the safety of pedestrians in an increasingly electrified transportation landscape.
As we look towards a future dominated by electric vehicles, it’s crucial to address the potential risks they pose to vulnerable road users like pedestrians. By understanding these risks and implementing appropriate safety measures, we can ensure that the benefits of electric and hybrid cars are not overshadowed by their impact on pedestrian safety.