Are Panoramic Sunroofs Actually Dangerous?
Panoramic sunroofs today have become one of the most requested premium features in any new car. A lot of buyers consider a panoramic sunroof as a sign of luxury and opulence. From sub-compact SUVs to premium luxury cars all are offered with panoramic sunroofs as part of the feature list to entice more buyers. However, many people today still wonder if these large glass roofs make cars less safe during accidents. As a result, the question that comes to everyone's mind is if panoramic sunroofs are actually dangerous? Well, here is the answer for your question.
One of the biggest misconceptions of new car buyers is when a large section of the roof is replaced with glass, it automatically makes a vehicle weaker. However, in reality, modern vehicles with panoramic sunroofs are thoroughly engineered and tested to meet the same safety standards just like all the models without them. Any automaker before launching a new vehicle makes sure that the vehicle goes through extensive crash testing. This is done to ensure that they provide adequate protection to occupants.
When it comes to vehicle safety, the most important components of any car are the high-strength steel pillars and the overall body shell. The A, B, C, and D pillars are responsible for absorbing impact forces. They are also responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the vehicle during a crash.
As a result of this, the roof panel itself plays a much smaller role than most people assume. If you are an eagle eyed viewer, then you might have noted that this is why most crash test ratings show very little difference between vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs and those with conventional roofs.
Another common concern of car buyers is how vehicles with panoramic sunroofs perform during rollover accidents. Well, the good news is that carmakers perform specific tests on their cars for such situations. The reinforced pillars and body structure are designed to protect occupants even when the vehicle rolls over. In addition to this many cars today come equipped with roof-mounted airbags which offer extra protection in such crashes.
Many people also worry that the large glass panel could shatter and injure passengers during an accident. However, it has to be noted that panoramic sunroofs use laminated safety glass, similar to what is used in windshields. This type of glass is designed to hold together even when damaged. This directly reduces the risk of sharp glass fragments entering the cabin and causing injuries.
What is very interesting is that one of the biggest safety risks inside any vehicle has nothing to do with the panoramic sunroof itself. There have been studies which have shown that passengers who do not wear seat belts are more likely to be ejected from a vehicle during a crash. In fact, unbelted occupants can be up to ten times more likely to be thrown out of the vehicle which increases the chances of serious injuries or fatalities.
So no matter how safe a vehicle is, seat belts remain the most important safety feature. Every passenger, whether they are seated in the front, second row, or third row, should always wear a seat belt. Parents should also make sure that children are properly secured using appropriate child seats and restraints.
Unfortunately, it has become a common scene in India for people to stand out of the sunroofs while the vehicle is moving. This is extremely dangerous and should be avoided completely. Any sudden braking, sharp turn, or accident can throw passengers out of the vehicle within seconds. Apart from increasing the risk of injury, such behaviour can also distract the driver and risk overall road safety.
Owners of vehicles with panoramic sunroofs should also take precautions while parking. We have seen falling branches, coconuts, and other heavy objects damage the glass roof and lead to expensive repairs. Now although comprehensive insurance policies generally cover such incidents. One should always take preventive measures.