Selecting a safe car for a new teen driver can feel overwhelming. Safety is important because teens’ lack of experience and maturity make driving more risky.
There are several things you can do to ensure the best choice.
Focus on safety features
Look for cars with advanced safety features. Modern vehicles come equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane-keeping assistance, and electronic stability control. These features can prevent accidents and reduce the severity of crashes.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provide safety ratings for cars. Choose vehicles that score high in crash tests and have good ratings from these organizations.
Consider vehicle size and weight
Heavier vehicles generally provide better protection in crashes. Aim for a car with a curb weight of over 2,750 pounds. Avoid very small cars, as they offer less protection in collisions. Midsize cars and small SUVs are good options because they balance safety and fuel efficiency.
Check reliability and handling
A reliable car reduces the chances of breakdowns, which can be dangerous for inexperienced drivers. Consumer Reports (CR) provides reliability scores for most car models. Look for vehicles with above-average reliability scores. Emergency handling is also important. Choose cars that score well in CR’s emergency handling tests to ensure they respond well in sudden maneuvers.
Look for affordability
Safety should not compromise affordability. There are plenty of safe, reliable, and affordable used cars. IIHS and CR recommend models that fit various budgets. Prices for recommended used cars range from under $6,000 to nearly $20,000. New cars with the highest safety ratings start at around $23,400.
Always check for recalls
Before purchasing any vehicle, check for outstanding recalls using the vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate. Ensure any recall repairs are completed promptly. This step ensures the car is in top condition and free from known safety issues.
Additional resources
There are several other resources to help parents teach their teens how to be safe on the road, including simulators, driving apps, and other safety materials. Armed with solid information and a safer car, your young teen driver will be less likely to get into an accident and suffer injuries that could affect them for the rest of their lives.
Picking a safe car for a new teen driver involves careful consideration. Following these steps can help provide peace of mind and keep young drivers safe on the road.
