this post was submitted on 22 Nov 2024
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Automotive research firm finds that Tesla has higher frequency of deadly accidents than any other car brand

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[–] pennomi@lemmy.world 133 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (55 children)

Which is odd, because most electric vehicles (including some models of the Tesla) have better crash ratings due to having a crumple zone where the engine would be. Assuming that’s still true, there must be another factor that tips the balance towards deadly accidents. Some thoughts:

  • They are heavy cars. Maybe it’s safer for the passengers but more deadly for the other vehicle.
  • Maybe Tesla drivers are more irresponsible than other car owners.
  • Maybe the torque and acceleration is too high, causing people to lose control more often.
  • Maybe something that doesn’t get rated in the crash ratings causes deaths, eg. electric locks which are unable to open when power is lost, a likely scenario during collisions.
  • Maybe the FSD features are causing more collisions to happen.

"A vehicle’s size, weight, and height certainly play a part in its ability to protect passengers in a crash,” said Brauer. “But the biggest contributor to occupant safety is avoiding a crash, and the biggest factor in crash avoidance is driver behavior. A focused, alert driver, traveling at a legal or prudent speed, without being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is the most likely to arrive safely regardless of the vehicle they’re driving.”

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