Electric vehicles have become more popular in recent years, especially when Elon Musk’s Tesla self-driving vehicles entered the market. But are these automobiles more likely to be involved in an accident and if so, will the damage be more severe? Here’s what to know about electric vehicle crashes and how an experienced Chico, California car accident attorney can help you. 

Why Are Lithium-Ion Batteries More Dangerous? 

While internal combustion engines make electric vehicles safer than gas-powered cars on one hand, it unfortunately creates a new risk that is more difficult to mitigate and may even be more serious in nature. Electric cars use lithium-ion batteries to store energy for later use, and this material has been found to have a dangerous propensity to explode or catch fire if the battery casing or internal structures become damaged. 

This is because lithium-ion batteries are extremely energy-dense, meaning that the amount of power packed into a relatively small space is very high. Even though this type of battery is an excellent source of power for an electric car, it makes them more likely to cause a fire when the vehicle is in an accident. 

How Drivers Can Be Safer When In An Electric Car 

If you are in or around an electric vehicle collision, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of additional injury as recommended by the United States Fire Administration: 

• Treat the vehicle as though it continues to have power at all times 
• Get the key out of the ignition if you can and put it at minimum 16 feet away 
• If you are able, put as much distance in between you and the car as possible 
• Contact local law enforcement and paramedics to report the incident 

Your car needs to get to a mechanic right away after a collision if it’s electric. This is another risk of having a lithium-ion battery – it may slowly leak toxic fumes and dangerous chemicals, even if it’s only sustained minor damage. 

How a Veteran California Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You After An Electric Vehicle Crash 

Zink & Lenzi Injury Lawyers understand how dangerous and devastating car accidents can be, even when they’re not electric. We can help you fight for the compensation you deserve after a Chico, CA motor vehicle accident that injured you through no fault of your own. Call now for a consultation at 530-895-1234.