If your car was totaled in a crash or is going to be in the shop being repaired for some time, you may be looking at rental cars once you’re physically and mentally able to get behind the wheel again. You may be considering an electric vehicle (EV). These are becoming increasingly common on Nevada roads – especially as gas prices rise.
It’s normal to be hesitant about driving an EV – particularly if you were involved in a serious crash. Does it take time to learn how to drive one? Are they considerably different to drive than gas-powered vehicles? If you’re used to driving a gas-powered car that has an automatic transmission, you won’t find much difference behind the wheel of an EV.
Key differences in driving an EV
One thing that drivers notice right away and have to get used to is that EVs accelerate quickly from a stopped position because they have only one gear. As you get going, however, you notice less difference in the speed of acceleration from that of a gas-powered car (for example, as you go from 30 to 40 miles per hour or above).
New EV drivers also need to get used to their vehicle’s regenerative braking. When you take your foot off the accelerator, the car will automatically start to brake. Some people refer to EVs as “one-pedal” driving even when they have a brake. Certain newer models of EVs in fact have only one pedal.
Another difference most people notice immediately is that there’s no engine noise. That’s because there’s no internal combustion. If you’ve been driving a hybrid, you’re already used to a relatively quiet vehicle. This is even quieter. In fact, EV manufacturers have begun to include noise-making features for safety.
Like any vehicle you’re unfamiliar with, it can take some time to get used to driving an EV. Like anything, the more experience you have driving one, the easier it will be. However, if you’re still nervous behind the wheel after a crash, it may be best not to take on a new type of vehicle just yet.
If your crash was caused by another driver, it is important that you get the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, car repairs, your rental car and more. You may want to seek legal guidance before accepting a settlement to be sure you aren’t getting short-changed.
