Given the sheer volume of training programs we deliver in any given year, we’ve heard just about every opinion imaginable when it comes to SUVs. They’re big, they’re heavy, they have a high center of gravity… they’re not fuel efficient (go figure). So what’s not to like?
From a safety standpoint, in a crash these big heavy vehicle’s can absorb far more energy than your “typical” sedan. From a security perspective, that higher center of gravity translates to the driver (and, perhaps, right front seat passenger) having an increased field of vision due to the simple fact that they are in a taller vehicle and the more I can see, the better I can protect.
As for the misconception that these SUVs are inherently “bad” because they have a higher rate of rollover accidents – and a higher fatality rate in those specific types of crashes – than some other types of vehicles, when you drill down into the US department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics, some eye opening facts come to light:
– The majority of SUV rollover crashes occur on a weekend (Friday or Saturday, after 12:00 midnight.
– In the majority of those crashes, the driver was:
- Amale under the age of 25
- Was drinking alcohol prior to the crash
– The majority of fatalities in SUV rollover crashes are:
- Passengers in the vehicle
- NOT wearing their seat belts
- Suffer traumatic injury when ejected from the vehicle
When all is said and done, weighing all the pluses and minuses, we prefer SUVs for a wide range of protective operations and environments. However, that does not mean that SUVs are right for every operation, environment or application. Ultimately, the practitioner must make a decision – or, as is often the case, provide input to those making the decision – based on the particular circumstances and needs or preferences of their Principal.
If that decision is to go with an SUV, then it stands to, reason consideration be given to that providing the drivers receive training that develops and reinforces the skill sets needed to effectively operate SUVs, and so that they understand the inherent differences in vehicle performance and handling between this type of vehicle and sedans. Is this training an absolute necessity? No, of course not. But is smack dab in the middle of a behind-the-wheel emergency an appropriate time to recognize that the vehicle performs, handles and “feels” differently than whatever other vehicle you may be used to driving? Probably not.
One of the questions we frequently get from students in our Protective/Evasive driving courses who also elect to participate in our SUV and Armored SUV Driving Skills Modules as well, is what is the best SUV out there. The market today? Again, that determination depends on a number of factors that the practitioner themselves should take into account (and/or inform those making the purchasing decision of).
Check out the piece Car and Driver magazine recently put together, which ranked the top SUVs.
Do you agree with the rankings? Why (or why not)?
That’s a good point that a higher center of gravity provides for a wider field of vision. I bet that’s really valuable for security service. That means even the driver can be more aware of what’s going on around the vehicle.
SUV …. for heavy security teams comfort of handling weapons inside is no less Important.
The best SUVs out there are the American ones 😀👍 and with higher tire pressure than recommended, that is probably one most important factor.
It’s not the car it’s the tires.