Choosing a vehicle is a big decision, and safety should be at the top of your list when making this choice. Whether you’re a parent looking for a car for your teen, or purchasing a vehicle for yourself, this guide will help you know what to look for to prioritize safety.
Investing in a safe vehicle can significantly reduce your risk of injury in the event of a crash. Modern safety features not only protect occupants but can also help prevent accidents altogether. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “Thanks to advanced engineering, in-depth research and analysis of crash data, newer vehicles are built better and have more safety features to protect you. Advanced technologies that have emerged in recent years give you even more safety options.”
Factors to Consider
Crash Test Ratings: Look for vehicles with high ratings from reputable organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the NHTSA. These organizations conduct rigorous crash tests to evaluate vehicle safety.
Safety Features: Consider vehicles equipped with advanced safety features such as:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): This feature alerts you if your vehicle drifts out of its lane.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: This system warns you of vehicles in your blind spots.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This feature helps maintain vehicle control in slippery conditions.
- Airbags: Look for vehicles with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags.
Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles generally offer better protection to occupants in a crash than smaller, lighter vehicles. However, larger vehicles may be less fuel-efficient and can pose a greater risk to other road users due to the increased force they impart in crashes.
Check for Recalls: Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to verify any outstanding recalls and ensure necessary repairs have been completed.
Teen Driver Considerations
If you’re buying a car for a teen driver, consider features that can help promote safe driving habits, such as:
Parental Controls: Some vehicles offer features that allow parents to monitor their teen’s driving habits, such as speed and location tracking. Parents can receive driving reports or set restrictions, such as maximum speed limits.
Limited Horsepower: Consider a vehicle with moderate horsepower to discourage speeding. Sports cars or those marketed for speed and power may tempt teens to test the limits.
Electronic Stability Controls: This technology helps reduce fatal crash risks due to loss of control of the vehicle by maintaining the balance of the car and counteracts under- or over-steering. This feature has been required on most passenger vehicles since 2012.
Tips for Choosing a Safe Vehicle
Do your research: Before you start shopping, research vehicles and their safety ratings.
Consider your needs: Think about your driving needs, budget, and desired safety features.
Test drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to get a feel for its handling and safety features.
Read reviews: Check online reviews from other drivers to get their perspectives on the vehicle’s safety and reliability.
Consult with experts: Talk to a trusted mechanic or car expert for their advice on safe vehicles.
Where to Research Vehicle Safety
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): The IIHS website provides detailed crash test ratings, safety feature information, and “Top Safety Pick” awards for various vehicles.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The NHTSA website offers crash test ratings, safety recalls, and information on various safety features.
Consumer Reports: This organization provides unbiased reviews and ratings of vehicles, including safety assessments.
Choosing a safe vehicle is an investment in your well-being and the safety of your loved ones. By considering these factors and doing your research, you can make an informed decision and drive with confidence.
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