Did You Know?
All new vehicles must meet certain federal safety standards. However, this doesn’t mean all vehicles are equally safe. However, many manufacturers do offer safety features that go beyond the required minimums. See what safety features you should consider when buying your next vehicle:
SHOPPING FOR A SAFE VEHICLE
These four safety features should be on your vehicle checklist:
- Crashworthiness: Check the vehicle’s crashworthiness ratings at: www.iihs.org.
- Vehicle structural design: A strong occupant compartment, known as the safety cage, is necessary, as well as front and rear ends that are designed to buckle and bend in a crash.
- Anti-lock brakes: Anti-lock brakes pump automatically many times a second to prevent lockup and let you stay in control of the car.
- Daytime running lights: These lights automatically turn on with your car and are important in preventing daytime accidents.
Safety First
First and foremost, your vehicle needs to provide protection in a serious crash. Belts, airbags and head restraints along with your vehicle’s structure can do just that. Lap/shoulder belts hold you in place, reducing the chances of being ejected from the crashing vehicle. If you aren’t belted, you may continue to move forward until something suddenly stops you. Usually a hard-interior surface that will cause injuries. Keep safety in mind when you are shopping for your next vehicle.