The sport utility vehicle (SUV) has been popular with consumers since it first rolled off the assembly line. It offers the versatility of a mini van and pickup all in one rugged and luxurious package. The problem with the SUV, is that it has a tenancy to roll over during extreme maneuvers.

Over 12,00 people have been killed in SUV rollovers in the last two decades. The problem has been around since its birth, but gained publicity in 2000 when Congress began a series of hearings focused on the Ford Explorer and faulty Firestone tires. The problem, however, came before 2000. The first big selling SUV, the Bronco II, was killing and injuring people more than any other SUV on the road. The problem could have been reduced by lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity and widening its wheel base, but company executives felt the fix would be too costly and that the improvements would not make much of a difference. Also, consumers who actually use their vehicles for off roading appreciated the extra clearance the SUV provided.

After decades of controversy and thousands of deaths due to SUV rollovers, automakers are changing their ways. In 2003, 15 domestic and foreign based automakers agreed that by late 2009, all SUV’S and light trucks would be built lower to the ground or built with an energy-absorbing beam. Studies conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety show that the number of side-impact SUV accident deaths decreased by nearly half when automakers brought in these changes. According to experts, a safety standard has not been so effective in saving lives since the inclusion of airbags in new vehicles.

Today, vehicles have many different safety features. Seat belts, ABS, airbags, stability control, traction control…, all make our vehicles safer to drive, but also gives us a false sense of security. Ultimately, driving safety is in the hands of the driver and no technology can help us when making unsafe decisions behind the wheel.