Your car is one of the most important purchases, so choosing one with features that fit your needs is essential. Among the features, safety should be every car owner’s top priority.
This is because car accidents are the leading cause of death in the United States, with over six million accidents and over 32,000 fatalities occurring yearly.
There are various safety features available on today’s cars, so it’s important to research which would work best for you. To help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road, we’ve compiled a list of 10 features every car need.
Table of Contents
1. Airbags
Airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a collision, cushioning occupants and preventing them from being ejected from the vehicle. All new cars must have driver and passenger airbags, but many also have side-impact and head-protection airbags.
2. Anti-lock Brakes
Anti-lock brakes prevent the wheels from locking up during sudden braking, helping to maintain control of the vehicle. This feature is crucial for avoiding skids and reducing stopping distances.
3. Brake Assist
Brake assist systems sense when a driver makes an emergency stop and applies full brake pressure automatically. This can help reduce stopping distances and prevent accidents.
4. Child Safety Locks
Child safety locks prevent children from opening doors or windows while the car is in motion. These locks are usually on the rear doors and can be activated or deactivated.
5. Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights make it easier for other drivers to see your car, especially in low-light conditions. Many newer cars have daytime running lights that turn on automatically when the engine is started.
6. Electronic Stability Control
Electronic stability control helps keep the car going in the direction you want it to, even if the road is slippery or you make a sudden turn. This feature can help you avoid accidents, especially on winding roads or in bad weather.
7. Traction Control
Traction control helps to prevent the wheels from spinning on slippery roads. This feature is often combined with electronic stability control to improve traction and stability further.
8. Blind Spot Monitoring
Blind spot monitoring uses sensors to detect when another car is in your blind spot and alerts you with a warning light or sound. This can help you avoid accidents when changing lanes or merging onto highways.
9. Rear-View Camera
A rear-view camera gives you a clear view of what’s behind your car, making it easier to back up and park. This feature is beneficial when obstacles are behind your car, such as other vehicles or pedestrians.
10. Automatic Headlights
Automatic headlights turn on when it’s dark outside or when the windshield wipers are turned on. This can help you see better and be seen by other drivers, even in inclement weather.
These are just a few safety features available on today’s cars. Choosing a car with these features can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road.