Road accidents involving electric vehicles (EVs) can result in injury to you and are similar to accidents involving traditional internal combustion engine vehicles that we are accustomed. The severity and nature of injuries can depend on various factors, including the speed of the vehicles involved, the type of collision, safety features of the vehicles, and whether occupants were wearing seat belts, among other factors.
There are some differences with an accident happening in or with an electric car, but both follow a common pathway to compensation.
Some common types of injuries in road accidents involving electric vehicles include:
Whiplash Injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions, where the neck is rapidly forced backward and then forward, causing strain on the cervical spine.
Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries or head injuries can occur due to the impact of the collision. This can range from minor concussions to more severe injuries.
Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a collision can lead to fractures or broken bones, especially in areas such as the arms, legs, and ribs.
Cuts and Bruises: Impact with various parts of the vehicle or objects within the vehicle can cause cuts, bruises, and abrasions.
Internal Injuries: The force of a collision may cause internal injuries to organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, which may lead to paralysis or other long-term health issues.
Electric Shock: In the case of damaged batteries in electric vehicles, there is a risk of electric shock, although modern EVs are designed with safety features to minimise this risk but an accident may damage these features.
Electric vehicles often have advanced safety features, including reinforced structures, crumple zones, and electronic stability control, which can contribute to reducing the severity of injuries in accidents. Additionally, the location of the battery and design of the vehicle play a role in minimizing the risk of electric shock.
As with any road accidents, the circumstances surrounding the collision, the speed of emergency response, and the quality of medical care can also impact the outcome for individuals involved in accidents with electric vehicles. Road safety measures, including adherence to traffic rules, proper vehicle maintenance, and public awareness, are crucial to reducing the overall incidence of accidents and associated injuries.
A study published by Axa in 2022 reported that electric cars are involved in 50% more traffic accidents than petrol and diesel cars. It concluded that driver behaviour was to blame for the high number of electric car accidents due to drivers not being used to the fast and sharp acceleration of EVs.
If you've been injured in a road traffic accident (“RTA”), you may be entitled to claim compensation. Whatever your injuries, our solicitors could help you get the compensation and rehabilitation that you need. Car accidents come in various forms, with each accident presenting unique challenges. It is highly likely that the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced if you weren't wearing a seatbelt.
You are required to wear a seat belt by law, but you're not necessarily barred from claiming compensation if you weren't wearing one when you were injured.
Electric car accidents can be broadly categorised into various types, including:
Rear-End Collisions: Typically occur when a vehicle strikes the one in front, often due to sudden stops or distracted driving.
T-Bone Accidents: Common at intersections, where one vehicle collides perpendicularly with the side of another.
Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as "T-bone" or "broadside" collisions, these occur when the front of one vehicle impacts the side of another.
Head-On Collisions: Among the most severe, involving vehicles colliding front-to-front. These accidents often result in serious injuries.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Occur on highways and involve three or more vehicles. Determining liability in such cases can be complex.
Hit-and-Run Accidents: When a driver flees the scene after a collision, making it challenging to identify and hold them accountable.
Our team have experience of accidents involving:
Injuries can have short and long term physical and psychological impacts following a car accident. Generally, accidents are categories:
Regardless of the type of accident, taking the right steps is crucial:
Car accidents bring about various damages, from medical bills to emotional distress. Pursuing a claim helps you secure comprehensive compensation.
Dealing with uninsured drivers add an additional layer of complexity to the aftermath of a car accident. Uninsured drivers, those without valid insurance coverage, pose a significant challenge when it comes to seeking compensation for damages. In the unfortunate event of a collision with an uninsured driver, the burden of covering medical expenses, property damage, and other losses often falls squarely on the injured party. In such cases it becomes crucial to consult with a skilled team who can navigate the legal complexities, explore potential avenues for compensation, and guide you through the process of securing the financial recovery you deserve.
Drivers must have third party motor insurance to meet any personal injury claim brought against them, and claims against untraced (hit and run) drivers or a driver who does not have insurance, are dealt with by the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB). The MIB is an organisation set up by motor insurers as a compensation fund of last resort, and they will meet accident claims by road traffic accident victims in these circumstances. If your road traffic accident was caused by a hit and run driver, it is very important to contact the police as soon as possible and cooperate with them.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a car accident due to negligence of another, don't hesitate to contact us. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options. Let us help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. There are time scales and you should contact us as soon as possible to investigate an action for you
Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with the legal representation you need during this challenging time.
Our solicitors understand the complex and long-lasting challenges posed by car accident injuries and sadly, fatalities.
If you or a loved one has experienced an injury reach out to Speir Buchan today. We are here to provide not only expert legal guidance but also an understanding of the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face. Together, we will work towards securing the compensation you deserve.
