Cars are not the same and differ in their names, shapes, engine sizes, and even transmission systems. This is also true for their safety features. Some vehicles have more safety features and a higher safety rating than others.
But are safety features in cars important? A simple comparison of road fatalities over the years will answer this. For example, the 2022 death rate was less than 14 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than in earlier years when cars had few or no safety features.
So what makes a car truly safe, and how do you pick the right one? Let’s break it down.
Why Some Vehicles Offer Better Protection
The main difference between cars regarding safety is the type and amount of safety features. For instance, a 5-star vehicle would likely have superior driver assistance or crash avoidance systems compared to other cars with lower ratings.
Crash Test Rating
Crash tests are done to learn how well a car responds to a crash. The vehicle is subjected to a controlled crash that measures its side impacts and rollover resistance, among other things. A safe car would sustain the least damage in this crash and a higher rating.
Structural Design
A car’s frame is everything during a violent collision. For instance, a safe car should have a strong, well-designed frame with a crumple zone that will absorb the impact in an accident. Additionally, it should have a reinforced passenger compartment to protect you during a rollover.
Advanced Safety Technology
Safe cars use technology better to protect you than standard cars. Using advanced features like driver assistance systems and lane-keeping assist means a safe vehicle is less likely to be involved in an accident. For instance, a car equipped with a forward collision system and autonomous emergency braking system is 50% less likely to be involved in a rear-end collision.
Key Features That Can Save Your Life
All the safety features in your car are important, but there are some vital ones that you can’t do without. Here’s a detailed list.
Airbags
This equipment has saved countless lives ever since it was introduced to cars. Airbags reduce the impact on your body by cushioning your head and chest during a collision.
Electronic Stability Control
Skidding when your wheels lose traction is a major cause of accidents. The ESC prevents that from happening, especially on slippery roads and during sharp turns, reducing the chances of accidents.
Lane Keeping Assist
This feature is useful when you’re fatigued or lose concentration when driving and drift out of your lane. It will alert and gently steer you back to your lane, preventing potential collisions. According to statistics, lane-departure assist can reduce collisions by 11%.
Consider Vehicle Design
Besides these safety features, the size of your car also determines your chances of survival in an accident. For example, bigger vehicles like SUVs often have stronger frames and are heavier than smaller cars, thus offering more protection to occupants. However, you must also consider that they are more prone to rolling due to their high center of gravity.
Choosing the Safest Car for You
Choosing a car isn’t easy. You must balance your budget with your preferred car’s qualities like engine size, seating capacity, and make. However, as much as all qualities are important, safety should be your priority, as this could cost your life. Consider the following when making your choice.
New Vs. Used Cars
You may want a new car or prefer pre-owned. Whatever the case, you should stick to newer vehicles with more advanced safety features. Older vehicles, although affordable, lack even basic safety features, potentially putting your life at risk.
Consider Vehicle Design
Larger vehicles with strong frames offer better protection during head-on and multi-vehicle accidents than smaller ones. However, these large units are also easier to roll. Consider your terrain and vehicle use before choosing. Look for a car with a lower risk of rolling and a strong structure.
Check IIHS and NHTSA Ratings
You may love a particular car brand, and your emotions may cloud your judgment when choosing a vehicle. To avoid bias, consider these ratings, which are backed by facts and are good indicators of how safe a car is.
Safety Comes Down to Smart Choices
Many car brands are in the market today, but they all offer different levels of safety. When choosing a car, consider crash ratings, safety features, size, and structural design before settling on a particular brand. Take time to decide, as the wrong choice could put you and your loved ones at risk of injuries in the event of a car crash.
