Safety Features to Look for When Shopping for a New Car

In recent years, automakers have added numerous safety features to vehicles. Technology improvements have made cars safer. Anti-lock brakes are now considered standard and new optional features are available to aid in preventing accidents. If you are in the market for a new car, consider researching car safety options before making your final selection. Purchasing a car with one of the options below helps reduce your risk of an accident, which can save your life and lower your car insurance premiums.

Adaptive Headlights

Adaptive headlights work by adjusting the horizontal aim of the light based on the speed of the vehicle and the direction of the steering wheel. This means the light will be directed where the vehicle is headed. For example, a driver will be able to see around a curve when driving in the dark. The Highway Loss Data Institute indicates that property damage liability claims decreased as much as ten percent when adaptive headlights were implemented. In addition, injury claims dropped substantially.

Forward Collision Warning System

This system alerts the driver if they are getting too close to the car in front. The system uses forward looking sensors, such as radar and cameras, which monitor the distance between vehicles. Some of these systems also include autonomous braking. If the driver doesn't start braking, the vehicle will automatically brake on its own. Again, this technology reduces property damage liability claims and injury claims. The actual amount of claim reduction depends on the make and model of the vehicle.

Backup Camera or Reverse Backup Sensors

Originally, the backup camera was only an option on luxury cars, but it is now available on midrange cars as well. A display on the rearview mirror or dashboard shows a camera view of what is behind the car. This is reassuring to a driver backing down the driveway or out of a parking spot and is especially desirable for families with small children. Reverse backup sensors can be offered in addition to the camera or without the camera. A beeping sound will be heard if something is in your way when you are backing up.

Looking for the above three safety features when shopping for a new car can save you money in insurance premiums, prevent an accident or even save a life. Some other safety features currently available include adaptive cruise control, side view assist and parking assist.

Don't forget coverage for your new car. Call First Insurance Group at (800) 511-2892 for more information on Somerset auto insurance.

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