How dangerous are convertibles?

The IIHS study discovered that, according to an analysis of crash and fatality rates, late-model convertibles are no more dangerous than vehicles that are not convertibles. The death rate for drivers was 11\% lower in a convertible, but the rate of driver ejection was higher at 21\% compared to 17\% in a non-convertible.

Do more people die in convertibles?

Despite the relatively flimsy appearance of their roof structures, late-model convertibles are no riskier than nonconvertibles, according to the analysis of crash and fatality rates. In fact, both crash rates and driver death rates were lower for convertibles than for nonconvertible versions of the same cars.

Is a soft top convertible safe?

“Soft tops offer more options for individuality, are as safe as the retractable hard tops … and typically will cost less to develop and manufacture than their retractable hard-top counterparts,” he said. He said cloth tops are as safe as hard tops.

Can you survive a rollover in a convertible?

The risk of a roll-over accident in a convertible is minimal, since the vast majority of them are sports cars with a low center of gravity. Any car, however, can roll over in the right circumstances. If you’re in a convertible when it happens, your odds of survival are considerably less than in a hardtop.

What is the safest convertible?

What are the safest convertibles you can buy?

• 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 1.8T S. Updated Aug 28, 2017.
• 2016 Porsche Boxster. Updated Aug 28, 2017.
• 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class SLK300.
• 2016 Mercedes-Benz E Class E400.
• 2016 Fiat 500 C Pop.
• 2016 BMW M4.
• 2016 BMW 4 Series 428i SULEV.
• 2016 BMW 2 Series 228i SULEV.

Are convertibles weaker?

Convertibles do have some inherent safety weaknesses, but they have to pass all current-day safety standards in order to be sold in the United States. TOM: The problem with convertibles is that they are structurally weaker than sedans because they lack roofs.

Does rain damage soft top convertible?

When buying a convertible it is important to consider the maintenance involved. A classic vintage soft top will be very susceptible to rain and sun damage over time. Modern soft top models offer better weather-proofing technology. Some, like the Range Rover Evoque, even claim to be car wash proof.

Is driving a convertible safe?

Modern convertibles are just as safe for passengers as regular cars according to a new study. A common concern people have with convertibles is that they aren’t as safe as regular cars. A new study conducted by IIHS concludes that convertibles are no less dangerous than their non-convertible counterparts.

Are convertibles more to insure?

Insurance is higher on convertibles. Convertible car insurance rates average at $206/mo, which is 30 percent higher than the standard rate for a hard-top sedan. You can lower your convertible car insurance costs with a defensive driving course and by shopping around online for auto insurance quotes.

Is a convertible worth it?

Convertibles are worth it for those who want a completely different driving experience, and particularly for those who live in warm and sunny climates. They look sporty, provide a great sense of speed, and allow the driver to soak up the sun whilst on the road.

How safe are convertibles?

In reality though convertibles have had high levels of safety for some time now. Handling and stability of cars has improved to a level where rolled cars are a very rare occurrence. Added to that modern convertible cars have reinforced windscreen frames and hidden roll over bars which pop up should the car become dangerously unstable.

Can a convertible roll over in an accident?

The risk of a roll-over accident in a convertible is minimal, since the vast majority of them are sports cars with a low center of gravity. Any car, however, can roll over in the right circumstances.

What are the benefits of driving a convertible?

The added rigidity of an immobile roof provides much stronger protection and gives additional strength to the car’s body in case of a crash. Even with the safety risk that comes with driving a convertible, the thrill and freedom of open-air driving is an unforgettable experience everyone should experience.

Are We entering the season of convertibles?

Every minute or two someone in the family announced the sighting of yet another convertible Mustang. Without question, we have entered the season of convertibles. Warm weather brings dropped tops, messy hair, sunburned foreheads, and sun-bleached interiors. I can’t blame the drivers on the 1 for their car choices.