Shopping for a new car can be a thrilling experience – especially with all of the new innovations on the market. Modern vehicles are equipped with all kinds of features that are designed not just to protect people when a crash happens (like airbags) but to actually prevent wrecks in the first place through things like lane departure warnings and backup cameras.
Surprisingly enough, however, it may be a very low-tech item that actually increases or decreases the chances that you’ll end up in a wreck. The color of your new car is something you need to consider carefully.
Want the most protection from wrecks? Pick a white or yellow car.
White cars may be a little boring, but they are definitely the safest color of vehicle to drive – although some studies indicate that bright yellow may even be safer.
Why is this so? It all comes down to visibility. White and yellow stand out against the gray asphalt of a road on a highway and against the largely gray urban landscape. They also retain more visibility in variable light conditions, especially at night.
Worried about safety? Eschew black and gray vehicles.
If you’re concerned about your family’s safety when you’re on the road, keep this in mind: Studies have consistently shown that back cars are 12% more likely to be involved in wrecks than white cars, and gray cars are 11% more at risk. Silver, too, is another color to avoid, because it’s 10% riskier to drive a car of that color than one that’s plain white.
It all comes down to a lack of contrast between the vehicle and its surroundings. This is particularly true near dusk and dawn – which is right when many commuters are on the roads.
Regardless of what color of vehicle you own, you have a right to expect other drivers to use appropriate and reasonable care when they’re driving – and far too many do not. If you’re injured in a wreck caused by another driver, it may be time to learn more about your right to compensation for your losses.