Overview

• A new study analyzing 35 years of collision data confirms SUVs are 44% more likely to cause fatal injuries to pedestrians and cyclists compared to standard cars.
• Children face even greater risks, with fatality likelihood increasing by 82% for minors and 130% for those under 10 when struck by SUVs.
• The taller, blunter front-end design of SUVs exacerbates injuries by striking higher on the body and increasing the chances of secondary impacts.
• Researchers estimate replacing all SUVs with passenger cars could reduce pedestrian and cyclist fatalities by 17% in the U.S. and 8% in Europe, with larger reductions for children.
• Advocacy groups and local authorities are urging governments to introduce size-based taxes, parking surcharges, and investments in safer infrastructure to mitigate risks.