People looking to purchase vehicles often consider safety as one of their main priorities, often especially if they transport their children regularly. Drivers often look at how well vehicles weather collisions and the standard safety features provided by the manufacturer.
The specific drive power system used by the manufacturer can be a consideration for those looking to acquire a new or used vehicle. Many consumers believe that they are safer if they purchase a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) instead of two-wheel drive. A vehicle with AWD or 4WD has systems that provide power to all four wheels. Many motorists assume that this naturally increases their safety and reduces their likelihood of a collision.
Do collision statistics support the idea that 4WD or AWD automatically makes a vehicle safer?
Increased power does not mean increased safety
AWD and 4WD do help improve overall traction on the road, which can allow for faster acceleration. 4WD can be especially useful for those who may drive off-road, such as farmers, while AWD is often helpful for those who regularly drive on wet or snowy roads.
However, there is no direct correlation between AWD/4WD and reduced crash risk. Power to all four wheels does not improve braking or cornering. If anything, the confidence provided by a larger vehicle with more acceleration power can lead to more dangerous choices in traffic, especially when roads are wet.
Motorists with 4WD or AWD may be more likely to drive aggressively even when the weather has undermined road safety. They might assume that they can maneuver more effectively even in slick conditions. The confidence and aggressive driving that 4WD or AWD may inspire in some can actually make these vehicles more dangerous in many cases.
Those operating SUVs, crossovers and other vehicles with 4WD or AWD still need to be conscientious about their surroundings. They need to adjust their traffic habits to account for road conditions when the pavement is wet or icy. In scenarios where those in large vehicles overestimate their capabilities or the performance of their vehicles, they may cause preventable crashes.
Those affected by preventable collisions caused by people operating 4WD or AWD vehicles may have reason to hold another driver accountable. Requesting compensation is reasonable when traffic infractions or driver negligence, possibly due to overconfidence in their vehicle, result in a preventable car crash.