It is a sad fact: car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. In many cases, the accident could have been prevented. However, due to inexperience and over confidence, many teens finds themselves in situations they cannot handle. As a parent, you can do two things to help improve your teen’s chances of avoiding a collision. The first is through comprehensive driver training. The second is by looking for vehicles that have built in safety controls.
Have You Considered These Cars for Your Teenager?
Newer models come with a number of safety features that could help your teen develop better driving habits and remain in control to avoid an accident. The Kia Forte provides the driver with an electronic stability control system. It is also listed as a 2010 IIHS Top Safety Pick because of its positive crash test results. Teenagers will be attracted by the Forte’s modern features such as a USB port, while parents will appreciate its effective safety design.
Subaru has always made safe vehicles and has even started a recent marketing campaign to promote the use of their vehicles for teen drivers.
Ford has produced a vehicle that is budget friendly and safe. The Fiesta also provides stability control and comes equipped with a total of seven air bags. Just like the Forte, the Fiesta entices teens with fun features like an infotainment system. Parents will love the Fiesta’s SYNC system that can block incoming cell phone notifications and calls to reduce distractions.
The US News and World Report recently came out with a list of the safest cars for teen drivers. In the list they mention The Honda Civic and Nissan Cube as preferred choices for concerned parents with new teenage drivers.
Safe Habits Comes First
Parents today can appreciate the many sophisticated safety features built into many modern vehicles. While this can dramatically impact your teen’s ability to avoid an accident, it is still not a substitute for experience and training. The first step for any teen should be driver training with experienced teaching professionals. As parents, be sure, like in the Suburu video above, to always review your safety expectations with your teen. A teen driver that is equipped with driver education and a safe vehicle will have the best chances of avoiding a collision on the road.
Just got our 16 yo daughter an 05 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo – 75k miles for $8,500. This SUV has a lower profile than many others, has full time computer controlled 4wd with traction control, very solid 3.7L V6 and great safety ratings. Good choice for kids and still looks pretty good. I really like the NEW grand cherokee – looks awesome.