When you go car shopping, you likely have a specific make and model you are interested in test driving. You may look for certain convenient features, such as radio dials located on the steering wheel or separate temperature controls for driver and passenger.
Keep in mind that there are some safety features you may want to have. Some are standard and some you may need to add. In addition to providing you added protection, there are some safety features that may also save you money on your auto insurance because they help lower the risk of you becoming injured during an accident.
- Airbags: Airbags are now available for all passengers. Some come with sensors so their deployment is specific for the size and weight of the occupant.
- Automatic brakes: New models can be equipped with brakes that sense when a crash is about to happen and brake automatically. This feature may not prevent a crash, but it can lessen the impact, which can result in fewer personal injuries and less damage to the vehicle.
- Recovery systems that locate your stolen vehicle: If your car is stolen, a recovery system sends out radio frequencies making it possible to locate the car, no matter where it is.
- Sensors on side view mirrors: If drivers drive their car in your blind spot, a light will come on in the side view mirror alerting you to the presence of the car. If you do not notice the light and start to change lanes into the path of the vehicle, you will hear a beep warning you not to change lanes.
- Brake assistance to anti-lock brakes: If you are in an emergency situation and slam on your brakes, the “brake assist” automatically knows whether to apply more or less force than you are actually applying to the brakes.
Contact your independent insurance agent to learn specifically what new vehicle safety features may save you money on your auto insurance.
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