Car Safety Features Every Family Should Look For

When choosing a car for your family, safety is a top priority. Modern cars are packed with high tech safety features like emergency breaking, cameras and lane assist, that help prevent accidents and protect you when accidents occur. Here are some key car safety features you should look for when purchasing your next vehicle.

 

1. Advanced Airbag Systems

Airbags have come a long way from just protecting the driver and front passenger. Many modern vehicles are now equipped with advanced airbag systems, including side curtain airbags that protect both the front and rear passengers in case of a side collision. Some cars even have rear-seat airbags designed to offer extra protection for passengers in the back, making them essential for families with young children. Remember front airbags can also pose a hazard to young children in the front seat or if you are not seated properly in the car like having your feet on the dash. Always act according to your vehicles manual in a safe and responsible way. Check if the car includes passenger-sensing airbag technology, which automatically deactivates the airbag if a child or smaller person is seated in the front.

 

2. Lane Keep Assist and Departure Warning

Lane keep assist and lane departure warning systems are designed to help prevent accidental lane drift, which can be especially useful during long road trips or when driving on highways. Departure warning will occur if the car detects itself moving out of the lane unintendedly like without a turn signal the cars steering wheel may vibrate or a message will pop up on the dash. Lane Assist will gently steer the car to keep it inside the lanes.

 

    • Why It Matters: This feature is particularly helpful when traveling with kids, as distractions in the car are inevitable, and it gives parents extra peace of mind.

 

3. Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control is one the best things to have on the highway. An advanced version of standard cruise control that automatically adjusts your car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This feature is perfect for long trips, where long hours of driving can become tiring. By helping maintain a safe distance and speed, adaptive cruise control reduces driver fatigue and helps prevent rear-end collisions. Newer models even allow the car to come to a complete stop and restart again. It’s important though to never rely on these features as a subsite for driving. Always keep two hands on the wheel and watch the speedometer.

4. Rearview Camera and Parking Sensors

Backing out of tight spaces or parking in busy areas can be stressful, especially with loud kids. A rearview camera and parking sensors are essential for family vehicles, giving drivers a clear view of what’s behind them and alerting them if something is in the way. This feature makes parking much easier and safer, particularly in crowded areas like schools, parks, and shopping centres. Remember though that the mirrors of your car must always be checked before reversing and parking.

 

    • Bonus: Some cars also offer a 360-degree camera system, providing a bird’s-eye view around the entire vehicle for even more safety.

 

5. Automatic Emergency Braking

Automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems can detect an impending collision and automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time. Whether you’re in the city traffic or on a family road trip, this feature can prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions. It can detect things like a pedestrian, animal or wall. AEB is especially valuable for family cars, as it adds an extra layer of protection when kids in the car can sometimes distract the driver or when unexpected objects jump into the path of the vehicle.

Safety features have become increasingly advanced, making family cars more secure than ever. When choosing your next vehicle, be sure to look for these added safety features. Lane assist and emergency breaking can come in handy especially on the freeway and in the city. Don’t forget to visit Express Lube for a full inspection to ensure your current vehicle is equipped and running smoothly!