Electric and hybrid cars pose a higher risk to pedestrians compared to petrol and diesel vehicles, especially in urban areas. A study conducted in the United Kingdom revealed that electric vehicles are quieter than combustion engine cars, making them harder to hear for pedestrians. This is particularly concerning since electric car drivers tend to be younger and less experienced.
Road accidents are a significant cause of death among children and young adults in the UK, with pedestrians accounting for a quarter of all road fatalities. The research team led by Edwards analyzed crash risk data from 2013 to 2017, involving over 900,000 victims, including 120,197 pedestrians. The analysis revealed that the pedestrian accident rate per 100 million miles was double for electric and hybrid vehicles compared to petrol and diesel vehicles.
In addition to being harder to hear, electric cars also present additional risks to pedestrians due to their rapid acceleration and heavier weight. These factors contribute to longer stopping distances, making it more challenging for drivers to react quickly in emergency situations. Phil Edwards, a professor of Epidemiology and Statistics at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, emphasized the dangers of electric cars to pedestrians due to their silent nature. He stressed the importance of addressing these risks if the government aims to phase out petrol and diesel cars in the future.
Edwards advised drivers switching to electric cars to be cautious and mindful of the differences in noise levels between the two types of vehicles. However, he warned that unless these issues are addressed promptly, promoting a transition towards electric cars could pose a risk to pedestrians on the road. It is crucial for both drivers and policymakers
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