How Safe Is That New Car?

by ERIC SOTIUSO

Everyone tends to be excited when going through the motions of buying a new car. One thing that is usually not at the top of our list of items to consider is SAFETY. Well, it should be. All cars have to be built for safety based on the minimum federal safety requirements, but some are definitely built safer than others. Some of the things to consider are: what models offer the most safety features for the most reasonable prices. Who will be the passengers in the car, and lastly, what kind of driving will the new car driver be doing.

Who says bigger isn��t better

In almost all collisions, bigger cars offer a safer outcome than smaller cars do. The explanation is just basic physics. When a bigger car collides with a smaller car, it pushes the smaller car back causing much more force on the smaller car. In addition, the safety zone on the inside of the bigger car offers much more protection because of the additional space available during impact. It is obvious to consider all the trade offs when thinking about that smaller car for gas savings!!

Will you stay on your ��feet�� (tires) when you turn?

So bigger is better. Yes, this is true, but not so fast!! Some of your biggest autos are not always the safest. There is rollover risk in many mini-vans, sport utility vehicles, and pick-up trucks. The heavier the vehicle, the greater the risk of rollover. This can also depend on the number of passengers in the vehicle. Check with the dealer about rollover safety on your desired automobile.

Seat Belts

Seat Belts obviously play a major role in safety when riding in an automobile. All cars have standard seatbelt features. The key is proper usage. First and foremost, always wear a seatbelt whether driver or passenger. There are some special features to consider that not all cars have. One is tensioners��seatbelts tighten up and prevent passengers from moving forward. Another is a middle back seatbelt. This is a great option for small children that are to big for car seats.

What��s the air bag Situation?

All cars are required to have driver and passenger side airbags in models newer than 1998 and light trucks in 1999. What you really want to consider when buying a new car is does the model have side air bags. Side air bags are a feature on some new car models that can help prevent injury from a side on collision. Lastly, remember that any child under the age of 12 years old cannot sit in the front seat of a vehicle that deploys an air bag.

The stop and go on antilock brakes

Antilock brakes are found on most of the newer car models out there. They were manufactured as a feature to create additional safety for the passenger. Recent surveys have shown mixed results on whether or not they truly help drivers under severe stopping situations. The bottom line is this: antilock brakes are a good safety feature if used correctly. Many drivers don��t use them correctly. If you buy a new model car with antilock breaks, make sure you get proper instruction on their use before you drive of the dealer��s lot!

Are headrests important?

Headrests are required in all new cars. The most important feature to have is adjustability. As a passenger or driver, you want to make sure your head is properly aligned to the headrest to prevent injury in the event of a collision.

Last but not least

Even though all these safety features are extremely important for your health, one additional benefit to making sure you have them all is lower insurance rates. That��s right! Many insurance companies offer discounted rates based on how many extra safety features a vehicle has.

For more information, please visit Chicagolandauto.com http://www.chicagolandauto.com.