Best Used Vehicles for Teen Drivers
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton car accident lawyer. When shopping for a vehicle for a teen driver, there are many important details to look for to ensure your loved one’s safety. If you are unsure which safety features to consider in a vehicle, please read our detailed article below.
Vehicle Safety Features
Selecting a used car for a young driver involves many factors to consider. Important safety features to look for in a used vehicle include the following:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This system uses sensors to detect objects ahead, such as bicyclists, pedestrians or vehicles, and mitigate an accident, if necessary. The system first alerts the driver if a collision is likely to occur and that they need to apply the brakes. These alerts may be presented through an audible alarm or dashboard warning light. The system may automatically apply the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision if the driver’s response is not sufficient.
- Forward-Collision Warning (FCW): This system monitors objects ahead and driving speed by using integrated cameras, radar or laser. If the system recognizes a potential collision, it will alert the driver to allow them ample time to take action to avoid an accident.
- Electronic Stability Control (ECS): This system is often referred to as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) or Electronic Stability Program (ESP). This system is a computerized technology that maintains control of a motor vehicle during inclement conditions or extreme maneuvers. The ECS improves vehicle stability by detecting and reducing the loss of traction by automatically applying the brakes to the appropriate wheel, putting the vehicle back on its intended path.
- Side Curtain Airbags: This safety feature is included in newer model vehicles and has earned higher ratings for passenger vehicles. Side curtain airbags deploy from the top of the door rails above the side window in the event of a side impact collision. This type of airbag is essential in a rollover accident as they stay in place to form a cushion between drivers or passengers and the vehicle window to prevent head injuries.
Vehicle Weight
The weight of a motor vehicle plays a significant role in an auto accident. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), heavier vehicles perform better in protecting occupants in accidents.
Vehicle Reliability
Reliability is key when shopping for a vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers a vehicle safety rating service to help consumers in purchasing a new or used vehicle. These ratings offer detailed insights about the vehicle, recalls and even comments by fellow consumers. This service may be accessed through the “Ratings” tab of the NHTSA’s website.
Watch Youtube Video – The Best recommended used cars for teens. If you are a parent planning to purchase a used car for your new teen driver, be sure to view this video to learn about the best used vehicles for teen drivers.
Top Safety Pick Vehicles
The IIHS is known for its crash safety ratings of motor vehicles on the market today. A list of IIHS “top safety pick” vehicles may be viewed here.
Which Vehicles to Avoid
Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and large pickup trucks are typically not recommended for young, inexperienced drivers. These vehicles require more experience in handling than smaller passenger cars. Additionally, SUVs along with vans, have a higher center of gravity. A simple unsafe turning maneuver in these vehicles can result in a serious rollover accident if not corrected safely.
It is never a good idea to buy a sports car for a new driver as these vehicles may increase the risk of speeding and a higher rate of auto accidents. Usually, higher insurance premiums apply to teen drivers who drive sports vehicles.
Related Content by Ed Smith, Car Accident Lawyer in Stockton:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents in Stockton
- How Do I Know If my Claim is Worth Pursuing?
- What Factors Affect the Value of my Injury Claim?
Stockton Car Accident Attorneys
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton car accident lawyer. Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful experience, especially when injuries are involved. If you’ve suffered a serious injury, please reach out to me at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
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