Many SUV's are high enough up to deal with the weather when it rains here, it floods and the man holes that stick up so high. Plus most SUV's have side airbags like Toyotos so you have more protection. Also, our trailer hitches have saved our fenders many people hit them rather than our fenders. Being higher up and able to see accidents in front of you helps so you can get in another lane. Also, I feel a bit safer due to all the huge construction trucks on the road. But without using your seatbelt any vehicle will be dangerous. Unfortunately we don't have good driving schools here they contribute to the chaos.