The Risks of Lifted Trucks and SUVs

Many truck and SUV owners opt to lift their vehicles, believing it enhances performance and aesthetics. While lifted trucks and SUVs do stand out with their increased height and larger tires, this modification can introduce several risks for both the driver and others on the road.

What are the different ways to lift a truck or SUV?

According to Action Car and Truck Accessories, there are different ways that a truck or SUV can be lifted. One of the most popular ways is for truck and SUV owners to purchase a lift kit, which is an “aftermarket accessory that lifts a vehicle further off the ground.” There are two main types of lift kits available on the market, which are:

1. A body lift kit: When a vehicle owner purchases and installs a body lift kit, they will need to temporarily remove the frame of the vehicle. After that is removed, they will need to install the spacers and put the frame and other parts back together with larger bolts. Body lift kits can lift a vehicle by around five inches.
2. A suspension lift kit: If a vehicle owner chooses to use a suspension lift kit instead, the vehicle will be “boosted up from its wheels and axles.” This is described as a much more thorough or extensive process, but it depends on the vehicle owner’s style and preferences. In the end, a suspension lift kit can lift a vehicle between two to 12 inches higher.
3. Leveling Kit: This type of kit raises the front of the truck or SUV to level it with the rear. It typically adds a few inches of height and is less extensive than other lifting methods.

What are the risks of lifted trucks and SUVs?

Lifting a truck or SUV can significantly impact its handling and safety, presenting several potential risks:

• Increased risk of rollovers: Large vehicles always have a higher risk of rolling over. However, trucks and SUVs that have been lifted are even more likely to roll over due to their higher center of gravity. When a vehicle has a higher center of gravity, it is easier to tip, lose balance, and flip over. In these types of accidents, individuals may be thrown around inside of or ejected from the vehicle. As a result, rollovers often result in traumatic and devastating injuries and fatalities.
• Blinding headlights: Headlights on a lifted vehicle are a lot higher than passenger vehicles. Due to this, vehicles driving in front of a lifted vehicle at night may have a difficult time seeing as the lights may “blind” them. On the other hand, drivers in lifted vehicles may have difficulties seeing headlights or rear lights on other vehicles that are lower to the ground, which can increase the risk of accidents.
• Visibility problems: Drivers of trucks or SUVs that are lifted by a few inches not only have a hard time seeing other vehicles but their blind spots and sight lines also change. Therefore, they may experience serious visibility problems when navigating the roadways, leading to unexpected and dangerous crashes.
• Parking lot and pedestrian dangers: Parking lots are one of the most dangerous areas for all types of vehicles. However, lifted trucks and SUVs are at more risk of being involved in an accident in a parking lot as there are many vehicles and people moving around and not necessarily paying attention. For example, a lifted vehicle may be unable to see a small child in front of its massive tires, which could result in a horrific accident.
• Trouble stopping: Trucks and SUVs that are raised may have trouble stopping due to the changes in the center of gravity. This can lead to a dangerous incident if they are driving on the highway and a vehicle suddenly cuts them off or slams on brakes with no warning beforehand.
• Increased rear-end damage: When a small passenger vehicle rear-ends another small passenger vehicle, it can cause serious property damage and injuries. However, when a lifted truck rear-ends a small passenger vehicle, the property damage is typically irreparable, and the injuries are usually life-threatening and catastrophic.

Five important tips for driving near a lifted truck or SUV in Kansas City, MO

From time to time, you will notice lifted trucks and SUVs driving around Kansas City, MO and surrounding areas. To be prepared to drive near and around these vehicles, remember these five important tips:

1. Always give them plenty of space and distance. Never tailgate or follow lifted vehicles too closely.
2. Do not stay next to a lifted vehicle for too long. If you need to pass or change lanes, do this as quickly as possible.
3. Pay attention, remain alert, and be aware of your surroundings. If you know that a lifted vehicle is close to you, make sure you are aware of where it is at all times while also keeping your eyes on the road.
4. Never suddenly get over in front of a lifted truck or SUV with no warning, and never slam on brakes while traveling in front of these vehicles.
5. Do not assume that the driver of a lifted vehicle can see your vehicle, especially if you are in a smaller vehicle. Be very cautious when pulling out or making a turn at an intersection when a lifted vehicle approaches.

If you or a family member were involved in an accident with a lifted vehicle, the truck accident lawyers at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys can help. While it is recommended to drive carefully around these vehicles just as you would 18-wheelers, we understand that you cannot prevent other drivers from driving carelessly or recklessly. Our firm has been proudly given the title of Kansas City’s Favorite Law Firm, and we strive to meet the expectations of our community every day. If you hire us, we will investigate your accident, determine whether the truck or SUV was road legal and who is at fault, help you collect evidence to support your case and fight for your right to the compensation you are owed. Please call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a free case review in Kansas City, MO, today. You can also schedule an appointment at one of our other locations in Lee’s Summit, Parkville, and St. Joseph (MO); Olathe, Kansas City, and Overland Park (KS).