John & Angela wrote:
RVUSA wrote:
donandmax wrote:
the crash tests were better then some full size gas guzzlers. The Smart is made by Mercedes Benz
Which ones?
The reality of a small car in a crash.
Yah there's no doubt that little cars have a tough time with big vehicles in collisions. Physics kinda wins out. But they do have a good reputation and track record. Fatalities are low compared to many brands and they have a long track record. Over a million cars on the road etc etc. In europe they have done a little research into why and some things like stopping distance, maneuverability, a real roll cage, multiple air bags etc seem to contribute to their low fatality and injury rate. Whatever it is it seems to be working. Best thing is to not get hit. :) Then again, I am a motorcyle guy from way back. You get used to trying to not hit things when you are on two wheels. :)
Stats can be misleading. Fatalities may be low, but is that because of the safety of the car or could it be because of the type of drivers who bought Smart Cars? According to stats one of the most dangerous vehicles on the road is the Corvette. Is it really that the Corvette is dangerous, or is it the fact that people who buy Corvette's don't buy them to drive 55?
Overall fatal traffic accidents are down over the last few decades. Less people die each year in car accidents now, than died each year 25 years ago. Depending on the financial interests of the person using that stat, you'll see all kinds of different reasons claimed. Safer vehicles and more seatbelt use is a big factor, but what is just as big of a factor is medical response. 30 years ago paramedics were few and far between. Ambulance crews would show up throw you in the meat wagon, and take you to the hospital and many people died on the way. Getting paramedics to crash scenes now saves thousands of lives each year. Not to mention the advances in medicine altogether.
