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Teenagers in 4WDs have higher crash risk than other cars

14 June 2007

New research from the Monash University Accident Research Centre shows that novice drivers in 4WDs are at a much greater risk of crashing than when the same age group drive other vehicles.

David Moir, RAC Executive Manager of Member Advocacy said:
"We know from previous research that 4WDs provide good protection from injury to their own occupants in a crash, but they are more likely to injure other road users who collide with them. This new evidence now shows that 4WD vehicles are more likely to be involved in a crash when driven by young drivers under 20.

"Parents need to consider carefully whether to allow their teenage children to drive a 4WD without supervision, particularly as these crashes are more severe with a higher risk of roll over when they do crash."

The research also shows that sports cars have up to twice the crash risk and the highest rate of fatal and serious injuries from crashes compared to other vehicles.

"Vehicles in this category, which included coupe-type vehicles but not sports sedans, have better handling and braking systems and would be expected to perform better than they have appeared in this research. Some further work is needed to determine the exact reasons for the high crash risk of this type of vehicle," said David.

"The new research supported by the RAC also shows that overall, less crashes occur in 4WDs than other vehicle types, and therefore there is no need to provide special regulations to control their use."