Like all cars, EVs (electric vehicles) can be involved in accidents, but the statistics show that they are no more or less likely to crash than a conventional car. Regardless of the car being driven, the statistics show us that human error is the primary cause of most road accidents in the UK (or worldwide).
While it is true that electric cars are currently heavier than petrol or diesel vehicles, due to the weight of the batteries, the manufacturers are increasingly able to reduce this difference as the technology improves. Most of these cars are now being fitted with specialised braking systems to compensate for the additional weight and to enable drivers to slow down as quickly as in other vehicles.
Do electric cars catch fire more than petrol or diesel cars?
Concerns are often voiced over the flammable nature of the batteries, when an EV car is involved in an accident. But this is statistically a very rare occurrence, and batteries are generally less combustible than the fuel used in conventional vehicles. These batteries are also very well insulated and designed to withstand collisions to keep both the battery and the occupants of the vehicle safe.
What to do if you have an accident in an EV
In terms of dealing with accidents that have happened, drivers would be advised to proceed exactly as they would if involved in a collision or accident in a conventional car. Call the police, if required (and/or other emergency services if needed), exchange insurance details with other parties, take photos of the scene, and either wait for the authorities to arrive, or continue safely on your journey (if it is a minor incident).
As with all other emerging technologies huge investments are being made to continue making electric cars both safer to drive and safer in the inevitable situations where accidents do occur.
