On Apr 1, 8:47*am, SMS <scharf.ste...@geemail.com> wrote:
> fft1...@gmail.com wrote:
> > I found this interesting study that shows the risk to drivers of other
> > vehicles vs the risk to drivers for different 1995-1999 vehicle
> > models.
>
> >http://www.lbl.gov/Science-Articles/...ty-newWin.html
>
> > For cars, it shows Camry to be the safest (with Accord and others
> > pretty close). The data is not normalized per mile traveled though.
>
> > What I find odd is that Prizm is considerably less safe than Corolla,
> > according to them. Is there a likely mechanical explanation (dual
> > airbags are standard in both, but perhaps the quality is different),
> > or is this a statistical artifact due to the poorer and thus younger
> > people buying Prizms?
>
> > By the way, does anyone know of a similar, but more up-to-date study?
> > I'd also like the probabilities of disablement included with the data
> > given per mile traveled.
>
> In terms of your own safety, select a vehicle based on the IIHS and
> NHTSA crash test ratings. For mid-size cars, the Subaru Legacy did the
> best when you look at both ratings.

Crash tests don't tell the whole story. They hide the fact that
driving a heavier vehicle is safer for you.

If you are a good driver and live in an urban area, you are probably
more likely to be in an accident involving another car than a concrete
wall.

Relative weight does matter. Graphic illustration:
http://izismile.com/2009/03/31/road_...is_7_pics.html