When it comes to choosing a car, safety should always be a top priority. This is especially true if you have kids who will be riding in the car with you. That being the case, here are some tips for choosing a car that’s safe for your kids.
Look for high safety ratings
One of the first things you should do when considering a car is to check its safety ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety both provide safety ratings for vehicles. So, when you go to look for a new car at Edmunds, be sure to scour the place for vehicles that have high ratings in crash tests and safety features.
Size and weight are important considerations
The size and weight of a car can also impact its safety. Larger, heavier cars tend to be safer in crashes than smaller, lighter cars, which can crumple more easily than you would imagine possible. SUVs, for example, are often considered safer for families because of their size and weight. However, it’s important to keep in mind that larger cars can also be more difficult to handle and maneuver, so if you are not a confident driver, they may not be the ideal choice after all.
Ensure those safety features are advanced
Many newer cars come with advanced safety features that can help keep your family safe on the road. Some examples of advanced safety features include backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking. Look for cars that come with these features, or consider adding them as options if they’re not already included.
Child safety features are a must
It goes without saying that, if you have young children, you’ll want to make sure that your car has appropriate child safety features. This includes things like child safety locks on the doors, LATCH anchors for car seats, and side-curtain airbags that provide additional protection in the event of a side-impact crash. Look for cars that have these features or can easily accommodate them.
How easy will it be to do repairs?
Even the safest cars require regular maintenance and repairs. When considering a car, think about how easy and affordable it will be to maintain and repair over time. Look for cars that are known for their reliability and that have affordable replacement parts.
Comfort and convenience are important too
While safety should be your top priority, you also want to make sure that your car is comfortable and convenient for your family. Consider things like the number of seats, legroom, cargo space, and entertainment options for your kids. A car that’s comfortable and convenient will make it more likely that your family will use it regularly and stay safe on the road, and less likely the kids will tantrum and complain when you are out and about.
As you can see, choosing a car that’s safe for your kids requires careful consideration of many factors. By doing your research and choosing a car that meets your family’s needs, you can help keep your kids safe on the road, which is so very important, I’m sure you’ll agree!
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own, 100% honest & unbiased. Affiliate links are posted throughout. Feel free to read my Disclaimer Page for details and information on sponsored posts, affiliate links, and more.
