EVs and Hybrids are twice as likely to hit pedestrians

Pedestrians are twice as likely to be hit by an electric or hybrid car than by a vehicle that runs on gasoline or diesel, according to a study released Tuesday. Researchers in London believe that the relatively quiet operations of an electric vehicle is the key factor.

Research on the the effect of electric vehicles on public safety is scarce — not just for cars and trucks, electrical bikes, scooters and other forms of electric transportation. But as the EV market grows, the subject is attracting more attention.

The lead researcher said that EV drivers “need to be extra cautious of pedestrians.” More and more pedestrians are distracted by their phones and do not hear the EV vehicle and step out into the street.

Read more about the study here