The number of pedestrian deaths has increased by 46 percent in the past decade.
Full-size pickup trucks today are heavier and larger than ever before, towering above all other vehicles. According to a new Consumer Reports story, the big trucks may be attractive to customers who are looking for utility and safety. However, their large sheet metal, high ride heights and tall hoods can pose a threat to other vehicles.
Larger vehicles can reduce driver sightlines and increase blind spots. This can pose a danger to pedestrians and other small vehicles. Consumer Reports shows that hood heights have increased by 11 percent between 2000 and 2018, with new trucks being 24% heavier in average from 2000 to 2018. According to the publication, trucks have frontal blindspots that are 11 feet larger than most sedans and 7ft longer than many popular SUVs. This puts children and the elderly at risk.
Consumer Reports found that many pickups do not offer automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. This technology has been proven to reduce frontover collisions as well as injuries. Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon do not offer this technology. Ford offers AEB with pedestrian detection across its entire lineup. The tech is available as a standard feature on only Ford, Honda and Nissan. Stellantis and General Motors both stated to the publication that their trucks will have automatic emergency braking by 2022.
The number of pedestrian deaths has increased by 46 percent in the past decade. This has disproportionately impacted low-income individuals, wheelchair users, elderly, and children. Although there is no way to increase truck size immediately, some safety advocates recommend that certain safety features be made standard. Local and state governments could also reduce speed limits and improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. As CR points out, it is unlikely that automakers will oppose consumers who desire larger vehicles.