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Electric vehicles (EVs) are surging in popularity as drivers seek greener, more cost-effective alternatives to gas-guzzling cars. More than 450,000 EVs were purchased in the first half of 2024, making up about 6.9% of new vehicle purchases in the U.S.
While EVs offer several benefits, they also bring unique challenges compared to traditional vehicles in car accident cases. These differences impact everything from the severity of accidents to the complexities of insurance claims.
As Syracuse car accident lawyers, our team at Catalano Law has the experience and technical knowledge to represent your interests after an EV crash. Learn how these collisions differ from those involving standard vehicles and how we can help you seek fair compensation.
Electric Vehicles and Their Growing Popularity
Electric vehicles run on electricity stored in batteries rather than gasoline or diesel. They include fully electric cars like the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt, and Nissan Leaf and plug-in hybrid models that combine electric power with a gasoline engine.
With incentives like tax credits and growing charging infrastructure, EVs are becoming a more common sight on the roads. Some estimates suggest there may be as many as 42 million EVs on U.S. roads by 2030.
As the number of electric vehicles increases, so does the potential for accidents involving these cars. However, EV accidents are not always the same as those involving traditional vehicles. Several unique factors can make EV accidents more dangerous or complicated.
Key Differences in Accidents Involving Electric Vehicles
All car accidents can lead to severe injuries and damages for those involved. However, EV crashes can be especially catastrophic due to the following:
- Battery Fires: Lithium-ion batteries power most EVs and can catch fire when damaged in a collision. These fires are more intense than gasoline fires and can be more challenging for firefighters to extinguish, as they may reignite hours or days after the initial accident.
- Greater Risk to Pedestrians and Cyclists: Electric vehicles are much quieter than traditional vehicles, especially at lower speeds. While this quietness benefits noise pollution, it can increase the risk to pedestrians and cyclists who may not hear an approaching EV.
- Faster Acceleration: Many EVs are designed to accelerate faster than their gasoline counterparts, thanks to the instant torque provided by electric motors. While this can make driving more exciting, it also increases the risk of rear-end collisions or loss-of-control accidents, especially for drivers not used to the rapid acceleration.
- Increased Weight and Potential for Greater Damage: Electric vehicles typically weigh up to 30% more than traditional cars due to their heavy batteries. This extra weight can result in more severe damage during collisions, both to the EV itself and to any other vehicles or objects involved in the accident. This can lead to severe injuries and higher repair costs.
Implications for Insurance Claims and Liability Issues With EVs
Accidents involving EVs can also lead to more complexity with insurance claims and liability. Here’s how your claim could be affected:
| Issue | Description | Effect on Claims |
| High Repair Costs for EV Components | Electric vehicles have expensive components like batteries and electric motors, making repairs more costly than traditional ones. | Possible delays or challenges with insurers over the higher repair costs, leading to a longer or more complicated claims process. |
| Assessing Fault With ADAS | Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in EVs, such as Tesla’s Autopilot, can make fault determination difficult, especially when system failures or driver reliance are involved. | Proving fault may be more challenging, possibly leading to a prolonged claims process or disputed liability. |
| Manufacturer Responsibility for Defects | Accidents caused by EV defects, like faulty batteries or software, can shift liability to the manufacturer, complicating the legal aspects of a claim. | You may need to pursue compensation from both the driver and the manufacturer, which will increase the complexity of your claim. |
| Specialized Insurance for EVs | EVs often require specialized insurance policies that cover unique risks, such as battery replacement and charging equipment. | Policy limits may impact coverage for these unique components after an accident, affecting your settlement. |
Get the Legal Support You Need
Given the complexities involved in accidents with electric vehicles, it’s essential to work with legal professionals who understand the unique challenges they present. At Catalano Law, our skilled car accident lawyers stay up to date with the latest vehicle technologies, insurance practices, and evolving legal standards.
Our team works with automotive and technology experts to analyze vehicle systems and accident data to strengthen your case and provide liability. We help you file a claim with the at-fault parties and seek a settlement that reflects the compensation you deserve.
