KQED's Forum In Transit: Cars Are Getting Bigger and More Dangerous. What Can We Do About It?
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Sep 12, 2024 Daniel Knowles, a data analyst for the Economist, discusses the alarming trend of America’s love for oversized vehicles. He reveals that larger cars correlate with increased pedestrian fatalities, sparking a vital conversation about urban safety. Knowles and fellow guests explore aggressive marketing tactics that promote these dangerous vehicles, and the societal implications tied to their rise. They also address potential regulatory changes needed to enhance safety for all road users, pushing for a cultural shift towards more responsible vehicle choices.
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Heavier Car Saved Lives
- Ethan Elkind's parents survived a head-on collision because they were driving a heavier car.
- The other driver, in a lighter Subaru, unfortunately died.
US Cars Getting Heavier
- US cars have gotten thousands of pounds heavier over recent decades.
- This trend is especially pronounced outside of California, where sedans are becoming less common.
Larger Cars, Increased Risks
- Larger cars are only safer for occupants, but significantly increase risks for others.
- The heaviest cars are six to seven times more likely to kill someone in another car they crash into.