A new regulation to phase out gas cars recently received unanimous approval, starting with 2035 models in California. It’s one of the most significant movements in the country to lessen fossil fuel consumption and move towards more sustainable transportation. It means Californians will need to switch to electric vehicles (EVs) sooner or later. However, some EV models are being investigated because of safety issues.
Are Electric Cars Safer Than Gas Cars?
Despite these ongoing investigations, the Alternative Fuels Data Center of the U.S. Department of Energy guarantees that the government holds EVs to the same safety standards as conventional gas cars. It means, if not more, they are just as safe as commercially available gas cars on the market.
When Will Gas Cars Be Banned In California?
California’s gas car phase-out is the first regulation that exists so far to stop the sale of gas cars and switch to electric vehicles. However, the state doesn’t plan to ban gas car sales instantly. It has given automakers time to produce new electric options according to the following timeline and percentages:
- 2026 – 35% of models sold must be EVs
- 2030 – 68% of models sold must be EVs
- 2035 – 100% of models sold must be EVs
Recently, around 16% of new car sales in California comply with these EV standards. Over time, this percentage will increase as California moves closer to the 2035 target deadline of the transition.
What Happens To Electric Car Batteries In A Crash?
One of the biggest concerns for EVs is their batteries. How do these batteries fair in crashes? Some may seem doubtful, thinking they’re more hazardous than conventional car engines. Certainly, EV batteries (usually lithium-ion batteries) are combustible and may catch fire in a collision. However, the chance of that happening is lower compared to internal combustion engines, according to CNBC:
- EVs – .03% chance of catching fire
- Hybrid electrics – 1.5% chance of catching fire
- Internal combustion engine – 3.4% chance of catching fire
The odds seem better for EVS in terms of igniting during accidents. However, when an EV does catch fire, it burns faster and hotter, which can become harder to put out. Some batteries can also reignite after hours or days, making the job of totally putting it out a massive concern for fire fighting agencies. However, leading EV professionals still believe EVs can become much safer than gas cars. As long as we take the time to understand and learn how to handle an EV’s hazards, we should be in the clear.
Why Should I Buy An Electric Car In California?
Aside from the impending gas car phase-out, California is always working on policies to make electric cars the preferred option in California. Some of these benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Parking incentive programs
- Charging access plans
- Charging electricity exemptions
- EV funding programs
- Tax exclusions for qualified manufacturers
Here is a list of laws and incentives in California. As someone who might purchase an EV in the near future, here are some benefits you might want to keep in mind:
Incentives and Rebates For Buying An Electric Car In California
EV tech is relatively new, making electric cars more expensive when bought new. The state promotes electric cars in California by setting up incentive and rebate programs for individuals or families. Many of these programs are designed to help low-income consumers who need assistance funding their EV purchases. The state hopes to promote clean transportation in California through these initiatives:
- Clean Cars 4 All – up to $9,500 to scrap an old gas vehicles and upgrade to an EV
- Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) – up to $7,000 to buy or lease an EV
- Finance Assistance for Low-Income Consumers – up to $5,000 worth of grants to finance used or new EV purchases
In addition to these programs, other regional clean mobility projects focus on providing affordable opportunities for disadvantaged communities. If you’d like to check out a list of funding opportunities in California, click here.
Dealing with Electric Car Crashes
At least in California, more EVs will be on roads over time. It also means that EV crashes can become more common in the future. However, laws and policies regarding EVs are still being worked out to benefit consumers and regulate manufacturers. It means your circumstances can quickly change and become complicated depending on various factors of your EV crash. During these times, you need a skilled and experienced car accident lawyer who can keep up with these developments and make a difference in your case.
A good attorney can help you build a solid case without getting hinged on other dependencies concerning the EV industry. However, a reliable lawyer also stays updated with EV issues and investigations so you can consider all factors of your electric car accident.
Whether you were a victim of a common or EV crash in California, you don’t have to fight for compensation on your own. A lawyer from Jacoby and Meyers can help you. We have a team of California’s best personal injury and car accident lawyers, including Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Fresno, and Sacramento. Hire one of our attorneys to help you get the justice you deserve. Also, they can give you insight into complicated topics, including car accident settlements and more.
In addition, a car accident lawyer can help you:
- Prove negligence
- Define the Cost of Damages
- Build a strong claim
- Negotiate a Settlement
- Proceed with important deadlines in mind
Give us a call today at 888-960-0480 for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you.
Call or text 888-522-6291 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
