Feb. 3, 2000

Sport utility vehicles are becoming more popular every year. But some drivers of SUVs are having problems keeping the speed down to legal limits. When you drive 60 miles an hour in an SUV, it can feel like 40. And that, experts say, can make SUVs especially dangerous on corners.

There's no denying people love their SUV's. The feeling of being bigger and higher makes many drivers feel safer.

"I definitely feel higher and safer, unlike when I drive my husband's car. It's lower to the ground and I don't feel as safe."

But SUV's can create a speed illusion, giving the driver the sense that he is traveling much slower than he actually is, according to one engineering study. Professional mechanics like John Buchak agree.

"Once you get out on the road, you're going a lot faster than you think you are."

Some SUV owners have noticed the speed illusion.

Lynn McCracken/SUV Owner: "Sometimes I don't realize how fast I'm going, and I look down and I'm going faster than what's allowed."

Making a turn in an SUV can be especially dangerous because you may be goiing a lot faster than you think you are. Some SUV drivers take corners too fast, and that can result in rollovers.

John Buchak/Mechanic: "You've got to be careful driving an SUV. I still love them."

Some manufacturers have warned of possible dangers of SUVs-- specifically, instability in cornering.