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In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a hot topic on the roads and in news headlines. These vehicles have played a pivotal role in shifting drivers to more eco-friendly transportation solutions. However, not everything is perfect when it comes to the rise of EVs. That’s because there has been a noticeable increase in EV car accidents across Arizona and the rest of the United States.
If you’re wondering why EV accidents are on the rise, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at a few factors influencing the spike in electric vehicle car crashes.
One factor contributing to EV accidents is faster acceleration. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs have a faster motor response. This means electric cars can accelerate faster than cars with standard combustion engines.
Simply put, electric vehicles drive faster. Drivers who aren’t used to this type of acceleration can lose control quickly.
If you’ve ever driven an electric vehicle, one of the first things you’ll notice is how quiet it is. Drivers who made the change from a classic petrol or diesel vehicle might have issues adjusting to this silence.
For example, electric vehicles have a different driving style, and new EV drivers might have little to no awareness of how the car will react. Electric vehicles are also often heavier than petrol or diesel vehicles due to their batteries.
Electric vehicles run on battery power. These cars are packed with batteries and carry a lot of weight. Even though these batteries are relatively safe, problems do happen. And when they do, the outcomes can be hazardous. Battery fires in an electric vehicle are extremely dangerous.
The battery of an EV is located at the bottom of the car and could spark a fire when hit. Lithium-ion batteries are difficult to extinguish and could result in life-threatening injuries, making these types of accidents more complex.
The growing popularity of electric vehicles has put a strain on the charging infrastructure. Even though the demand for electric vehicles is skyrocketing, the rate at which charging stations are being installed is still too low. This creates challenges for drivers such as the inability to find charging stations, leading to loss of battery power and potential accidents.
The silent operation of electric vehicles isn’t just a danger to drivers but also to pedestrians. Traditional petrol or diesel cars usually produce a guzzling sound pedestrians can hear. But electric vehicles are nearly silent, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians who may not hear an EV coming their way.
Most drivers think electric vehicles are lighter than standard cars—but this isn’t true. Electric vehicles tend to weigh more than traditional vehicles due to their batteries. The extra weight of EVs can potentially cause more damage during car accidents, leading to more severe or even life-threatening injuries.
New technology doesn’t always mean safer technology. Electric vehicles are high-voltage systems that can cause serious electrical shock or fires during an accident. This means a severe accident can quickly escalate into a catastrophic collision.
Despite the increased popularity of electric vehicles, law enforcement isn’t as experienced with them as they are with traditional vehicles. This can complicate the investigation process when an accident occurs, leading to issues regarding fault and liability.
Repairing an electric vehicle after an accident can be much more expensive than repairing a standard vehicle. If you’ve been involved in an EV accident and need help understanding repair costs, a car accident attorney at Shapiro Law Team can help. We’re experienced in handling electric vehicle accidents of all types.
Car accidents pose difficult legal challenges, no matter what kind of vehicle you drive. Shaprio Law Team will help you determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and secure maximum compensation for your case. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
If you or a loved one was involved in an EV-related car accident, we urge you to take the following steps:
Step 1: Remain Calm
We know how chaotic things feel after a car accident. Whatever you do, try to stay calm, assess your surroundings, and get to safety.
Step 2: Check for Injuries
Once you’ve moved to a safe location, check for any injuries on you or your passengers.
Step 3: Turn off the Car and Move Away From It
If it’s safe to do so, turn off your vehicle and move away from it.
Step 4: Report the Car Accident to the Police
Be sure to call your local police department. The police will create a report our team will use to build your case.
Step 5: Document the Accident
Use your smartphone to take photos of the crash scene. This includes photos of the vehicle, your surroundings, injuries, and any skid marks on the street.
Step 6: Seek Medical Treatment for Injuries
Don’t wait to seek medical attention. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to support your claims.
Step 7: Notify Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible, but don’t say anything else regarding the accident until you’ve reached out to a lawyer.
Step 8: Document Your Damages
Keep records of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident.
Step 9: Seek Legal Advice
Call a Phoenix car accident attorney who understands the legal proceedings regarding electric vehicles.
Representing yourself in a legal case following a car accident is difficult and highly advised against. Instead, call the attorneys at Shapiro Law Team. We’re specially trained to handle your case from start to finish. Our attorneys take extra care in:
As the popularity of electric vehicles continues to rise, so does the need for experienced EV accident attorneys. Shapiro Law Team understands the unique challenges electric vehicles create. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your needs and offer a free, confidential consultation to our clients.