Don’t overlook the safety features when buying a new car in Alabama. While systems like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking are nice, make sure you also examine passive features like airbags and seatbelts. You can’t prevent all car accidents. Still, you can lower your chance of being injured in one by following these Alabama car buying tips.
Why Do Safety Features Matter When Buying a Car?
A car’s safety features matter because they help protect you and your passengers when something goes wrong on the road. Effective safety systems can lower the risk of serious injuries in a crash, while crash prevention features may help you prevent collisions from occurring at all. Vehicle safety technology adds peace of mind during everyday driving, especially in heavy traffic, bad weather, or at night.
What Are Some Must-Have Active Safety Features?
Some essential active safety features when buying a new car include the following:
- Automatic emergency braking (AEB) – AEB systems can detect a vehicle, pedestrian, or obstacle ahead and apply the brakes if you do not react fast enough.
- Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist – Lane departure warning alerts you when your car drifts out of its lane without a turn signal. Similarly, lane-keeping assist systems can guide the vehicle back toward the center of the lane to help prevent a sideswipe or run-off-road crash.
- Blind spot monitoring – Blind spot monitoring warns you when another vehicle sits in an area you cannot easily see in your mirrors, which can help you avoid unsafe lane changes.
- Forward collision warning – Forward collision warning systems track the distance and closing speed between your car and the vehicle ahead. The system alerts you when it thinks a crash is imminent so you can brake or steer to avoid the collision.
What Are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)?
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) use sensors, cameras, and radar to track the road, nearby vehicles, and lane markings. These systems help drivers spot hazards and respond more quickly in emergencies. Some ADAS features can include lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These devices do not replace safe driving, but they can provide an additional layer of support during normal driving and in emergency situations.
What Are Important Passive Safety Features to Look For When Car Buying?
While active safety features are good to have when you’re looking at a new car, don’t overlook passive safety features. Some passive features to examine in a new car include the following:
- Airbags and airbag placement – Look for front airbags, side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags that cover both rows of seats. Make sure the car includes airbags for the driver and passengers, plus added coverage for side-impact crashes.
- Crumple zones – Crumple zones absorb crash energy, helping reduce the forces that reach the driver and passengers. Look for a vehicle design that supports controlled impact protection in both the front and rear.
- Seat belt technology – Choose a car with seat belts that include pretensioners and load limiters for the front and rear seats. These features tighten the belt during a crash, helping reduce the likelihood of chest injuries.
- Child safety systems – Look for LATCH anchors in the car’s back seat, plus clear labels that make it easier to install car seats or booster seats. It’s smart to check for rear door child locks and window lock controls to keep your children safe on every ride.
Are Advanced Safety Features Worth the Extra Money?
Advanced safety features can cost more upfront but often pay off in the long term. These systems can help prevent crashes, lower the risk of severe injuries, and reduce your repair costs. Furthermore, many drivers like the extra confidence they get during long drives or busy commutes. Compare the car’s trim levels and check which features come standard. Focus on the options that match how and where you drive most often.
How Can You Check a Car’s Safety Rating?
You can check a car’s safety rating by reviewing crash test results from trusted sources. Start with data from:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
These sources feature data from testing vehicles for crash protection, and they rate features such as headlight effectiveness and crash-avoidance tools.
You can also look at the car’s recall history and read the window sticker for safety equipment. Remember to compare ratings for the exact year and model you’re considering.
Can Safety Features Help Reduce Your Insurance Costs?
Safety features may help reduce your insurance costs, but the savings depend on your insurer and the car you buy. Some companies offer discounts for crash avoidance systems, anti-theft devices, or strong safety ratings. Your rates can also drop if a vehicle has a lower injury risk and lower claim costs. Still, it’s worth considering that repairs for advanced sensors and cameras can cost you more money and take longer to complete after a crash. Ask your insurance company for a quote before you buy a new car.
Contact an Alabama Car Accident Lawyer Today
Unfortunately, you can’t avoid all car accidents in Alabama, even with the latest safety features in your car. Gartlan Injury Law can defend your rights and fight for full and fair compensation if you suffered injuries in a crash. We take the time to fully understand your needs and keep you fully updated throughout your case.
Our client reviews reflect our commitment to client service, such as this review from a recent crash victim:
“Extremely pleased with the outcome of my case involving a car accident that wasn’t my fault. Mr. Gartlan and his associate Candice were very timely, fair and efficient in getting the job done. I got what I needed to resolve the case. I would highly recommend him!” — Josie
If you’re ready to talk to a Dothan car accident lawyer, we’re ready to listen. Call Gartlan Injury Law now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
