Question: Have you recently experienced obstructed line of sight due to the prevalence of oversized pickup trucks and SUVs on the roads?
Perhaps when trying to navigate traffic or exit a parking spot? If you own an oversized vehicle, your answer may be “no,” but for most, the answer is likely a strong “yes” — and you are not alone.
In recent years, oversized pickup trucks have become increasingly common in Montana. These new trucks are reminiscent of military vehicles in terms of their size, appearance, and weight. Their presence in parking spots and lanes is evident, with their weight being particularly alarming. While a typical mid-size car weighs over 3,000 pounds, modern pickups range from 4,000 to nearly 9,000 pounds. These large vehicles consume a disproportionate amount of resources and pose serious risks to other road users.
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A study in 2019 revealed that modern pickup trucks were 159% more likely than smaller cars to cause fatalities to passengers in the other vehicle. Oversized vehicles are also a significant threat to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Research indicates that pedestrians are at a much higher risk of fatalities when struck by larger trucks, vans, and SUVs compared to regular passenger cars.
In light of these dangers, it is essential to address the popularity of large vehicles. Many individuals view oversized pickup trucks as symbols of status and power, acting as luxury vehicles disguised as utility vehicles.
The federal government’s lenient regulations for “light trucks” have contributed to the proliferation of larger, heavier vehicles. These regulations, coupled with tax incentives for businesses purchasing oversized pickups and SUVs, have resulted in a market saturated with these vehicles, despite their negative environmental and safety implications.
While some individuals rely on pickups for work purposes, society must prioritize the removal of unnecessary oversized vehicles from the roads. These vehicles pose risks to public safety, incur additional costs for municipalities, and contribute to environmental degradation.
It is crucial for car manufacturers and large vehicle owners to acknowledge these issues and take responsibility for their impact on society and the environment.
Sneed Collard is a writer from Missoula.
