Experts claim SUVs pose a greater threat to pedestrians than other vehicles, adding because of the growing number of drivers purchasing these models, the cars should carry health warnings.

In the British Medical Journal

Sales of SUVs have increased by 15% across Europe in the past year, while sales of standard cars have dropped by 4%. In the U.S., 40% of new vehicles bought by drivers are classified as light trucks or vans - many of which are SUVs.

A recent study in America found that, for the same collision speed, the likelihood of a pedestrian fatality is nearly doubled in the event of a collision with a large SUV compared with a passenger car.

Pedestrian injuries from ordinary cars are mainly leg fractures and knee injuries from the initial impact with the bumper, and head injuries from the secondary impact with the bonnet or windscreen.

Researchers say, because SUV bonnets are higher than those of cars, there is a more severe initial impact on the upper leg and pelvis, and a doubling of injuries to vulnerable regions such as the head, thorax, and abdomen.

A number of measures to reduce the risks associated with SUVs, include placing warning notices on the vehicles in order to inform consumers of the increased risks of severe injuries and death associated with them.