When shopping for a new vehicle for your family, safety should be your top priority, and for good reason. Family-friendly cars are more than just spacious interiors and ample cup holders – they’re designed to ensure the protection of your loved ones on the road. With so many advancements in vehicle safety technology, there’s a lot to consider. Here’s a guide to the most important safety features to keep in mind when choosing the right family vehicle.
1. Crash Test Ratings
One of the first things to check when evaluating a family car is its crash test ratings. Look for high ratings from trusted sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These organizations conduct rigorous tests to assess how well vehicles protect passengers in various types of collisions. Comparing these ratings between vehicles can give you a good indication of how a car will perform in an accident.
2. Airbags and Protection Coverage
Most family-friendly vehicles now come equipped with a range of airbags, including side airbags and curtain airbags that provide extra protection for rear-seat passengers. Curtain airbags are especially important in side-impact crashes and rollovers, offering additional safety to children in the back seat. Some vehicles even offer rear-seat airbags, providing even more protection for passengers in the rear. When evaluating safety, more airbags generally mean better coverage in the event of a crash.
3. Child Safety Features
For families with young children, child safety features are a must. Look for cars with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, which simplifies the installation of car seats. Many vehicles also offer additional LATCH anchors or even built-in booster seats. Make sure the back seat has enough room for your child’s car seat or booster seat, and check how easy it is to access the LATCH system.
4. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is essential for preventing loss of control in slippery conditions or during abrupt maneuvers. ESC works by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels, which can help avoid rollovers or skidding. This feature is particularly important in larger vehicles like SUVs and minivans, which may be more prone to rollovers. Thankfully, ESC is now standard in most new vehicles.
5. Forward-Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking
Forward-collision warning systems use sensors or cameras to detect potential collisions and alert the driver with warnings. If the driver doesn’t act quickly enough, automatic emergency braking can be activated to prevent or mitigate a crash. This feature is especially helpful for distracted driving and provides extra safety for family vehicles, particularly when driving with children.
6. Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are highly useful safety features. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you when a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching cars when reversing. These technologies add an extra layer of protection, helping prevent accidents caused by limited visibility or changing lanes without seeing another vehicle.
7. Lane-Keeping Assist
Lane-keeping assist is a valuable tool for families who frequently drive long distances. This feature uses cameras to monitor lane position and can automatically steer the car back into its lane if it begins to drift. This is especially useful on long trips, helping prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue or inattention.
8. Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance between your car and the one in front by automatically adjusting speed. This is particularly useful in heavy traffic, reducing the need to constantly adjust the cruise control. Some systems can even bring the car to a complete stop and resume driving, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.
9. Rearview Cameras and Parking Sensors
Rearview cameras are now standard in most new cars, providing a clear view of what’s behind you when backing up. This is especially important when there are children or pets around. Parking sensors further enhance this feature by alerting you to obstacles that might not be visible on the camera, helping prevent accidents in tight spaces.
When searching for a family vehicle, prioritize safety above all else. Look for strong crash test ratings, a wide range of airbags, and advanced features like electronic stability control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Child safety features, like the LATCH system and ample space for car seats, are also essential. High-tech safety features, such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, can further enhance your peace of mind while driving. By choosing a vehicle with these features, you’ll be making the best choice for your family’s safety on the road.