Are You in the Market for a New or Used Car? Be Sure to Check Out the Safety Features

When you think about purchasing a new car, pickup, or SUV, you are probably looking for attractive body styling, comfort, quality, and fuel economy. You may also be looking for the newest high-tech connectivity features. But, do you look for a car equipped with features to help keep you and your family safe on the road?

For the past 30 years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been driving safety innovation through the 5-Star Safety Ratings System, which provides unbiased crash test results to help consumers choose the safest cars available on the market. Starting with seat belts and lighting, technological innovations have evolved to include sophisticated crash avoidance and crash protection features. So, what features are available on new cars today?

Crash Avoidance Technology

The best way to prevent serious injuries and fatalities is to prevent a crash from happening in the first place. This is the idea behind crash avoidance technology. The following features used to be options offered only on high-end luxury vehicles—they are now available on many new vehicles:

• Electronic stability control helps drivers maintain control around curves and on slippery roads
• Lane departure warning warns drivers when they drift into another lane of traffic
• Forward collision warning cautions drivers of an impending frontal collision

Crash Protection Technology

When a crash occurs, advanced technology can help protect vehicle occupants. The following safety features are available on many new cars:

• Advanced head restraints to protect the head and neck in a crash
• Advanced frontal airbags to shield the driver and front-seat passenger’s head, neck, and chest in a frontal crash
• Side airbags and curtains to protect the vehicle occupant’s head, neck, chest, and pelvis in a side crash
• Safety belt load limiter and safety belt pretensioner to absorb the force of a crash while tightening the belt to prevent vehicle occupants from jerking forward

When looking for a new vehicle—or purchasing a used vehicle—be sure to review the 5-star safety ratings for the vehicle you are considering. And, if you have been hurt in a serious car accident caused by a negligent driver, contact us today at 888-716-7336 to schedule a complimentary consultation.