Driving with the top down on a convertible can be freeing and enjoyable. However, if you drive or are considering buying a convertible, it would be natural to question whether or not it is more dangerous than a standard car with a hardtop. After all, there is no roof over your head to protect you in a car accident .

Fortunately, convertibles have proven to be just as safe as other passenger vehicles. The design of convertibles helps make them safe, and so do diligent drivers who abide by the traffic laws.

You might be surprised to learn that convertibles are involved in fewer car accidents than standard cars, according to a study that analyzed crash statistics. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that convertible cars are involved in six percent few accidents per miles driven, with a lower driver fatality rate of 11 percent. The owners of convertibles are generally safe drivers.

Part of the reason that convertibles are in fewer accidents could be that they have smaller blind spots when the top is down. The driver’s vision is not blocked to the extent it would be in a hardtop that has pillars holding up the roof.

Modern active safety systems also help prevent accidents. Lane keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with automated braking can help make the drive much safer.

Although convertibles have safety features, they still have downsides. According to the IIHS study, drivers in convertibles are more likely to be ejected from a vehicle in a fatal crash. According to the study, 21 of convertible drivers were killed in ejection crashes compared to 17 percent of non-convertible drivers.

A rollover accident is the greatest risk while you are driving a convertible. If the top is down, you stand a greater chance of being ejected from the vehicle. Fortunately, wearing a seat belt will help prevent occupants from getting ejected during a rollover accident.  

Also, modern convertibles are designed with roll bars that will help protect you in a car accident. Many convertibles also have hardtops that provide good protection.

Another hazard is that convertibles also have fewer airbags than other vehicles. There are likely no side curtain airbags in your convertible.

Despite the potential dangers, convertibles are no riskier than other vehicles, according to crash data and safety statistics.

If you have been hurt in a car accident due to no fault of your own, our experienced Mt. Laurel Township car accident lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman can help. We will fight on your behalf and protect your rights. You can call us at 856-751-2345 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. We are located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, and we serve clients in Burlington County and the surrounding areas.

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