The cars and trucks that traverse America’s highways and byways are older than ever, according to the automotive research firm R.L. Polk. The study revealed that the average age of automobiles on the road today is 11.4 years. It reported that light vehicles bring in the top eleventh increase in annual revenue and stay on the road for nearly a decade. There are many reasons for the advanced age of the American consumer automotive fleet, including the Great Recession, less attractive leasing options, and lower prices for used vehicles.
Why Age of Vehicles Matters
Consumer durables such as automobiles are goods that are built to last for a long time. Consumer durables include major appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and automobiles, which can last for up to fifteen years, or more. Though the appliances keep running, these machines become less efficient the more they do and operate. Most automobile owners continue to drive cars but when it comes to cars and trucks, they are not nearly as safe the older they get. Older cars are very challenging as they get older. They require many replacement parts that often exceed the cost of a new vehicle.
An older vehicle is not only more likely to suffer a breakdown than a newer one, but it is also more likely to be involved in a car accident. Then, when a collision occurs, outdated safety features offer occupants less protection than they’d find in a newer automobile such as curtain airbags, anti-skid locks, and traction control. It is for these reasons that owners of older vehicles should seriously consider car shopping if possible.
Enlisting the Help of a Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident with an older car such as models between the late 1990s and 2005 consider consulting a car accident attorney to determine important information. If the car has faulty replaced parts, fails to meet modern safety standards, or appears to be poorly maintained you may be entitled to compensation. Additionally, a car accident attorney comes in handy when determining who is at fault for the accident.
As most insurances are eager not to accept fault, it becomes an overwhelming and intimidating process. Knowing your rights in a car accident situation with an older automobile or any automobile is very important. Car accidents can have a devastating effect on your life and immediate and relevant challenges as you need to cover unexpected expenses such as medical bills, loss of wages, and other incurring costs.
Consult the immediate help of a car accident attorney if you experience or anticipate the following:
- Loss of wages
- Excessive medical bills
- Fault discrepancies and disagreements
- Pressure from insurance companies to settle
