Hypermiling Hazards

With fuel costs always seemingly on the rise, some drivers have taken to extreme measures in order to maximize their fuel efficiency. As some models now come with computerized read-outs that inform drivers what their current mile-per-gallon rating is, a number of motorists work to reduce that figure at all times. While this hobby reduces the use of gasoline and saves money on a short-term basis, it can also prove extraordinarily dangerous if taken too far.

If someone places their own savings above the safety of others on the road, their reprehensible behavior should not be tolerated. To discuss your claim if you have been injured by one of these negligent drivers, contact the Las Vegas personal injury lawyers of William Palmer & Associates, P.C., at 702-888-2222.

Dangerous Hypermiling Tactics

The committed and regular practice of the aforementioned driving behaviors is known as hypermiling. Motorists who operate their vehicles in this manner, known as hypermilers, attempt to get the most out of their gas tank, often at the price roadway safety. Some of the dangerous methods used to drastically increase a vehicle’s MPG include the following:

• Pulse and glide, in which a driver accelerates beyond the posted speed limit and then shifts into neutral, allowing the car to decelerate before repeating again
• Drafting, which brings vehicles dangerously close to each other as one follows immediately behind another
• Coasting, which can prove dangerous
• Rat-running, in which motorists attempt to avoid stop and go traffic by rushing through surface, residential streets
• Ignoring stop signs
• Overinflating tires

Although there is certainly nothing wrong with saving some money by driving smartly and safely, taking this philosophy to a dangerous level is something altogether different. This sort of behavior is entirely irresponsible, and may contribute to a collision.

Contact Us

If you have been injured by a driver who values their pocketbook over their safety, there may be legal action available to you. Contact the Las Vegas personal injury attorneys of William Palmer & Associates, P.C., today by calling 702-888-2222.