Electric cars more often involved in accidents with cyclists or pedestrians: Vias blames silent motor sound

Electric cars are involved in accidents with vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, at a significantly higher rate than conventional vehicles, according to new findings.

“

When an electric car causes an accident, a vulnerable road user is involved in more than 4 out of 10 cases.

Data from the Belgian traffic institute Vias reveals that in more than 4 out of 10 accidents caused by electric cars, a vulnerable road user is among those involved. This contrasts sharply with the overall accident rate for all vehicles, where vulnerable road users are present in 27% of incidents.

Vias suggests that the near-silent operation of electric vehicles could be a contributing factor to this increased risk. The absence of traditional engine noise may make it harder for pedestrians and cyclists to detect approaching electric cars, particularly at lower speeds or in urban environments.

“

The accident rate for all cars involving a vulnerable road user is 27 percent.

This finding highlights a potential safety challenge associated with the growing adoption of electric vehicles. While offering environmental benefits, their quiet nature necessitates a re-evaluation of how drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians interact on the road to mitigate potential dangers.

“

The lack of motor sound in electric cars may play a role.