Obesity Increases Risk For a Serious Car Accident

Article written by guest writer Rin Mitchell

What’s the Latest Development?

Based on a study conducted by researchers at the University of Laval, “morbidly obese drivers have an increased risk of crashing because of weight-related health issues.” The research took information from past studies to examine the link between driving and obesity. What does being obese have to do with car accidents? “Poor car to person fit is thought to be the leading cause of the increased risk of injury and fatality.” 

What’s the Big Idea?

Should automakers start producing cars with body size, shape and weight in mind? Obesity is a problem in the United States—one that is often perceived as a personal problem for those suffering from the disease. The idea of obesity being a factor in car accidents changes that perception, because it now poses a risk for non-obese people. Either automakers will need to change the way they build cars, or some sort of law will have to be put into place about weight and the operation of vehicles. Obesity is already a serious health issue, and now it has become a safety issue.