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Over the years, electric vehicles have increasingly become more common across the state of California. Electric vehicles are an efficient and consumer-friendly way to travel from point A to point B. However, electric vehicles introduce new safety concerns and legal considerations that are different from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Understanding these differences and the safety concerns behind electric vehicles is important in reducing the risk of unnecessary injuries and harm.
The Rise of Electric Vehicles in California
The adoption of electric vehicles amongst drivers has significantly increased over the years. Along with its growth comes a shift in the ways accidents are investigated and how liability is determined amongst the various parties involved. Understanding the unique legal and safety considerations of owning an electric vehicle in California can help drivers become aware of their rights if an accident occurs.
Unique Safety Risks in EV Accidents
Lithium-Ion Battery Hazards
Lithium-ion battery hazards store a significant amount of energy and may cause severe safety risks and concerns if damaged during a vehicle collision. An electric vehicle's battery that is compromised can overheat and become known as a “thermal runaway”. This can cause significant harm to drivers as it can lead to fires that burn hotter and longer than gasoline fires.
Risk of Electric Shock and Chemical Exposure
Electric vehicles utilize high-voltage electrical systems that create exposed wiring or damaged battery components after a vehicle collision occurs. These ultimately cause severe safety hazards, including but not limited to electrical shocks or chemical exposure to drivers.
Silent Operation and Pedestrian Safety
Electric vehicles operate quietly in comparison to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. This causes an increase in danger for pedestrians as they are unable to detect approaching vehicles.
Legal Considerations in EV Accidents
Traditional Negligence Still Applies
Negligence oftentimes applies to electric vehicle accidents, as a driver's behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield, is a factor that is still relevant in determining fault and holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Product Liability and Manufacturer Responsibility
An important difference in accident cases involving electric vehicles is the potential for product liability claims. A vehicle that has defects in design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate safety features can cause specific parties to be held accountable for injuries. These parties may include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Battery or component manufacturers
- Software developers
- Charging equipment providers
Multiple Parties May Be Involved
Multiple parties may be involved in injuries caused by electric vehicle accidents. Every case is different, so determining liability may require intense investigation, the preservation of evidence, and expert analysis. Responsibility may be shared among the following individuals when an electric vehicle accident occurs.
- The EV driver
- Another driver involved in the crash
- A manufacturer or parts supplier
- A repair facility that performed recent work on the vehicle
Common Injuries in EV Accidents
Common injuries of electric vehicle accidents may include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Burns from battery-related fires
- Smoke inhalation or exposure to toxic fumes
- Electrical injuries
- Traumatic injuries from collisions
In some cases, electric vehicle accidents may involve battery fires or explosions that can lead to long-term or chronic health concerns. It is important to seek medical care and attention when victims suffer injuries from these accidents to prevent the risk of future harm. Victims should also consider seeking medical attention when injuries seem minor to decrease the chance of them worsening over time.
Steps to Take After an EV Accident
Victims who have suffered injuries from electric vehicle accidents should consider taking the necessary steps to make a faster recovery. A legal professional can help victims understand their rights and the important safety precautions to take after an accident occurs. These precautions may include the following.
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Avoid contact with damaged battery components or exposed wiring
- Call emergency services immediately
- Document the scene with photos and notes
- Seek medical attention, even for minor symptoms
Since electric vehicle accidents pose unique dangers, it is generally important to consult the advice of a legal professional to help minimize any additional harm that may occur.
When to Seek Legal Guidance
Victims involved in an electric vehicle accident should consider seeking legal guidance and support to better understand their rights throughout their personal injury claim. A legal professional can review the facts of the accident, identify potential responsible parties, and communicate with insurance companies to help victims focus on recovering from their injuries.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
KAASS LAW is determined to help victims and their families get back on the road to recovery after suffering injuries from electric vehicle accidents. These accidents can oftentimes become challenging to determine who is liable and responsible for injuries. If you are a loved one has suffered from an electric vehicle accident, you are not alone. Contact KAASS LAW today to discuss your options moving forward.