Bigger, Heavier Vehicles Will Keep You Safer - PickupTrucks.com
I was riding in my fathers 1964 Chrysler Imperial Crown Coupe, (a car I wish I could still have today), when we were hit head on by a VW Bug that crossed over the line. We were able to drive away with minimal damage while the other car. The only repair my dads car needed was a new drivers side grill and headlight assembly, bumper and drivers side fender. At the time seatbelts were an option a some cars, but came standard (lap belts) in the big Chrysler, and my dad always made sure we were "belted in" even way back in 1965. we used to make sure we were as safe as the NASCAR drivers back then. Sort of a fun way to learn how to use your seat belts. We walked away with not a scratch, and from that day on I have always worn my safety belt, no mater what anyone else tells me. Plus I only buy big full size cars or trucks, or at least mid size today. But there is no need to say how much safer cars are today than back then. Like most things "more" is usually better. Cars and trucks are safer today than ever before. When bigger heavier thing hits smaller lighter thing smaller lighter thing will almost always come off worse than bigger heavier thing. The idea that to be safer one must be bigger dismisses the fact that unless you are literally driving a semi truck, tour bus, or tank then you aren't safe. The frequency of smaller lighter cars being in accidents is probably MUCH higher than that of 3/4 ton pickups as small cars sell in higher numbers hence raising the likelihood of injury and the number of claims this study is based upon. Source: news.pickuptrucks.com
