Together with the increase in the popularity of hybrid cars is the possible corresponding increase in risk of accidents and sacrifice of innocent lives due to too much silence when running on streets and highways.. We may think a noise free car is an advantage but think twice before you make your conclusion. “Hybrids are so quiet that pedestrians can't hear it when it's starting up or idling, and they often walk right into the path of the moving vehicle.” That’s what Gary Richards said in his article in www.mercurynews.com
He made an examination report to determine the silent danger that hybrids pose to pedestrians and passer-bys especially to those who rely on their hearing to cross a street. The National Federation of the Blind aired out their concerns regarding the risk posed by silent cars on pedestrians especially the hybrids to the National Highway Traffic Safety. They suggested to have a little noise for the hybrids to warn people walking nearby.
They also mentioned that a buzz from the radiator fan switch while the battery is in use would even do. Hybrid owners can look for such parts at Auto Parts Discount. Most GM and Honda Hybrid such as Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra hybrid pickup trucks, Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight could be an exemption since the electric battery can produce audible noise. On the other hand, Toyota Hybrid such as the Prius is included in the line-up of the silent cars.
Several personal experiences were presented although it is not backed up with real data or statistics that can prove the supposed silent danger of hybrid vehicles. However it can be considered as a warning to prevent the silent danger of hybrids lingering in the air from endangering innocent lives. Take note that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
He made an examination report to determine the silent danger that hybrids pose to pedestrians and passer-bys especially to those who rely on their hearing to cross a street. The National Federation of the Blind aired out their concerns regarding the risk posed by silent cars on pedestrians especially the hybrids to the National Highway Traffic Safety. They suggested to have a little noise for the hybrids to warn people walking nearby.
They also mentioned that a buzz from the radiator fan switch while the battery is in use would even do. Hybrid owners can look for such parts at Auto Parts Discount. Most GM and Honda Hybrid such as Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra hybrid pickup trucks, Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight could be an exemption since the electric battery can produce audible noise. On the other hand, Toyota Hybrid such as the Prius is included in the line-up of the silent cars.
Several personal experiences were presented although it is not backed up with real data or statistics that can prove the supposed silent danger of hybrid vehicles. However it can be considered as a warning to prevent the silent danger of hybrids lingering in the air from endangering innocent lives. Take note that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.