The Hidden Dangers of Electric Vehicles

Switching to electric vehicles (EVs) might seem smart for our communities, especially if you want to lower pollution. However, electric cars come with different safety issues that don’t always get the attention they deserve. For people walking, riding bikes, or driving nearby, there are risks that need to be considered.

If you ever get hurt because of one of these hazards, figuring out who’s responsible isn’t as simple as you might think. Make sure you understand how these accidents happen, who could be responsible, and what you should do in this situation.

Hidden electronic vehicle hazards

Electronic vehicles promise cleaner commuting and advanced technology. Still, owners and the general public should understand that this evolving way of travel comes with hidden hazards. These risks sometimes aren’t obvious but can seriously affect the safety of drivers and others near these vehicles.

Silent/low-noise operation

One main difference with EVs is how quiet they are. This silence might feel pleasant inside the vehicle, but it poses problems outside. Pedestrians, particularly children or people with visual impairments, rely on hearing to detect nearby cars. Cyclists also expect to hear an approaching vehicle as a warning. Although newer vehicles emit noises to avoid such risks, in low-speed situations, like parking lots or residential streets, people may not notice quiet older model EVs until they are dangerously close.

Extra weight

EV batteries weigh a lot more than those in gasoline vehicles. This pushes up the overall weight of the car. Heavier vehicles need more time and distance to stop. That can surprise drivers who might not be used to the difference, particularly in sudden stop scenarios.

Instant torque

Another unique trait is something engineers call “instant torque.” Put simply, the gas pedal in most gasoline vehicles needs time to build up speed. Electric motors give a spike of pulling power instantly, as soon as the pedal is pressed.

Sometimes, that instant jump is stronger than people expect, especially for drivers not used to how quickly the cars react. This sharp acceleration can surprise a new EV driver, who may rear-end the car ahead, lurch forward in traffic, or lose control.

Battery fires and thermal runaway

EVs run on large, high-capacity batteries. If a battery gets impaired during use or in a crash, there is a risk of “thermal runaway.” Basically, the battery can heat up quickly and burn, creating extremely hot fires that are difficult to put out. Sometimes these battery packs can reignite even after first responders believe the situation is under control. Smoke from burning batteries contains hazardous, toxic chemicals that can threaten bystanders long after the flames are gone.

High-voltage systems

Under the hood, and often the entire length of an EV, are high-voltage cables and connectors. In a crash or significant fender-bender, these exposed wires can pose their own set of hazards. Good Samaritans and even skilled first responders may come into contact with energized parts, putting them at risk for shock or worse.

Charging station dangers

Public and home EV charging stations open up additional risks you may not consider.  Trips and falls can happen if cables run across walkways, especially in areas where it’s poorly lit. Malfunctions in the charger equipment could cause electrocution threats for careless or unaware users.

Who could be liable in an EV accident?

When accidents involve electric vehicles, determining who may be held responsible can be more complex than in crashes with traditional cars. Below are some of the parties that are most often found legally responsible:

Negligent drivers

Traditional traffic laws still govern these accidents. If someone was speeding, running a red light, texting, or violating another law, and caused the accident, they can be responsible for the crash.

Vehicle manufacturers

Sometimes the issue starts with the EV itself. If your vehicle’s battery or thermal management system was poorly designed or prone to overheating, the manufacturer may share blame. Faults in self-driving features, braking, or lane-assist systems also sometimes play a part. When poor design or defective software contributes to an EV crash, victims can demand compensation from the company that produced the vehicle.

Battery and component makers

Modern EVs rely on specialized electronics, battery packs, and thermal controls. Sometimes injuries are traced not just to the carmaker but to the suppliers building these individual systems, such as the people making the battery, its battery management system (BMS), and the system that controls temperature. If a battery fire, explosion, or system failure caused your accident, the particular manufacturer of that component may be liable.

Charging station owners and property owners

Property owners and operators who don’t fix problems like poor lighting, unclear directions, faulty wiring, or slippery pavement near charging points can be responsible for injuries. This falls under premises liability laws.

Service and repair shops

Working on an EV isn’t quite like handling a gasoline vehicle. High-voltage procedures require careful training, and improper repairs might lead to later crashes or fires. If a repair or maintenance shop didn’t follow proper steps or mishandled parts, this negligence could make them responsible for losses from an EV accident.

Municipalities and contractors

Sometimes roads and public spaces factor into EV collisions. Annoying potholes, broken pavement, or curbside charging stations covered with ice or snow may increase the chances of an accident. Local governments or road-maintenance contractors expected to keep the area safe can be liable if a poor road or an ignored hazard played a role in your crash.

It can take time to determine which party or combination is at fault in any EV accident. Speaking to an attorney who understands these cases is the best way to make sure you get on the road to recovery as quickly as possible. Our team has decades of experience handling personal injury accidents, including those involving electric vehicles. When you’re ready to learn more about your case, contact The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer.