Why do people drive SUVs?

[primavera]

11. I see, thanks

Although, I have to say, there's a certain cyclical quality to the logic here: if there weren't so many SUVs on the road obstructing the views of lower to the ground cars, one would have ample visibility from behind the wheel of a normal vehicle and wouldn't need a SUV in order to be able to see. I sometimes get the impression that we as Americans let ourselves get drawn into a vicious cycle when it comes to trying to outdo others on the roads. E.g., I need a 2,500 lb vehicle in order to be safe on the roads because there are 2,000 lb vehicles that could make mincemeat of me if they hit me. Well and fine, but then everyone needs a 3,000 lb vehicle in order to feel safe from all of the people like me who bought 2,500 lb vehicles. And so on and so on. When does it stop? When everyone is driving their own armored personnel carrier? Wouldn't it just be easier if everyone drive lighter, or, as the case may be, shorter, vehicles?