Stylish vehicles are certainly eye-catching as they go down the road. Because of their sharp look, many people opt for flashy cars without taking the time to research their safety ratings. However, when you are the parent of a new teen driver, safety ratings become a lot more critical.

If your teen will be using your vehicle for their driving, safety becomes a much higher priority. Doing research and asking questions like “Is my child covered under my car insurance?” can help prepare for the worst-case scenario. However, nothing beats a safe, reliable vehicle for your teen to drive.

You may purchase for your teen a car to learn in and eventually have for themselves. Or your teen may use your vehicle to learn and use in their early driving years. Though it can be tempting for you or your child to want a specific, stylish car, there is a reason safety is so sought after.

Why do teens need safer vehicles?

Teens are just getting the handle on driving. Because of their inexperience, they typically have slower reflexes and less road knowledge. Additionally, they may be more reckless behind the wheel.

These factors can make teens risky drivers. Because their brains are still developing, young drivers don’t fully understand the consequences their actions may have. They are more willing to drive at extremely high speeds, cut off other drivers, and generally drive in a reckless manner.

The longer someone spends driving, the more experience they gain. Since young drivers are so fresh behind the wheel, their ability to make split-second decisions is low when driving. Many times those reflexes can be the difference between being involved in an accident and narrowly missing one.

Teens are three times more likely to be involved in an auto accident than older drivers. With those statistics, it’s essential to put your teen in a car to keep them as safe as possible if they were involved in a collision.

What makes a vehicle a safe choice for parents?

As technology advances, so do the safety features available on vehicles. There are many factors to consider. However, some are more important than others.

Airbags

Airbags are a standard safety feature on almost all newer vehicles. However, some types of airbags are more effective than others. In crash tests, it’s been shown that side airbags tend to be more effective as they protect the head and chest.

When looking for a safe vehicle, always be sure to check if there have been any airbag recalls on your specific make and model.

Blind-Spot Monitor

As stated above, teens are still learning the ways of the road. Blind spots can be challenging for them at times.

Many modern vehicles come equipped with blind-spot monitors, alerting the driver when another car is in their blind spot. This feature can be beneficial to teens, so they become more aware of their surroundings.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Electronic stability control is another newer feature seen on vehicles made after 2012. ESC is a fantastic safety feature for teen and adult drivers alike — especially if you live in a climate with harsh winters.

This safety feature avoids sliding or skidding through the use of computerized sensors. It can be a lifesaver in vehicles that have a higher chance of rolling, such as SUVs.

Adaptive Headlights

Driving at night can be dangerous, and statistics prove it, with over 40% of all fatal accidents occurring in the dark. Even with an average of 60% less traffic on the road, driving at night is difficult.

Adaptive headlights can help immensely with nighttime driving visibility. Rather than sitting in a forward, fixed position, these new headlights use electronic sensors to detect your steering angle. They will then swivel in the direction your car is heading.

Backup Cameras

Many newer model vehicles come equipped with backup cameras. They are extremely helpful when you are reversing or parking. Rather than attempting to look over your shoulder and out your back windshield, you can watch your camera through a screen in your car to know exactly what you’re doing.

This feature can be helpful for teens still learning how to check their surroundings and learn how to park correctly. With the help of a backup camera, they can be more aware of what is around them and avoid potential collisions.

Collision Avoidance Systems (CAS)

Collision avoidance systems are a relatively new safety feature, seen in models manufactured in 2019 or newer. They are cutting-edge technology designed to help avoid collisions through the use of technology.

There are different types of CAS, including:

• Automatic braking system – This technology will sense incoming objects and automatically activate the vehicle’s brakes.
• Forward collision warning system – This system monitors the speed at which your vehicle is driving, as well as the speed of any cars in front of you. It will also monitor the distance between the two. If it notices you are coming too close to the vehicle in front, your car will warn you of a potential collision.
• Lane departure warning system – With this technology, you will be alerted if your vehicle begins to stray from its lane.

While these features aren’t the only factors that make up a safe vehicle for your teen to drive, they are a great place to start. Looking for a safe car means you are decreasing your child’s chances of being involved in an auto accident.

Choosing Safety Doesn’t Have to Mean Sacrificing Style

Safe vehicles aren’t necessarily any less attractive than other cars. However, choosing a car based on looks alone isn’t helpful to your teen. From electric cars to gas-powered ones, keeping them safe behind the wheel is the most crucial factor of the vehicle you select.

Teens are more likely to drive recklessly, text and drive, and have slower reflexes than those of more seasoned drivers. No matter how much advice, practice, or information you give them, it isn’t always enough to protect them once they are out on the road alone.

Though you can’t always be there in the passenger seat beside them, you can make sure they are as safe as possible through a vehicle with highly-rated safety features. These advances in vehicle technology can protect your teen from potential collisions and potentially save their life in the event of an accident. About Author:

Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of vehicle safety with others to help them choose the best car for them.

 

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