Getting a driver’s license opens the door to new freedoms and opportunities, but it also comes with inherent risks. Teens are more prone to accidents than any other age group, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, auto accidents are the leading causes of death for teens in the United States.
In 2013, more than 243,000 teens between the ages 16 and 19 received emergency room treatment for accident injuries. If your child is about to receive his or her license, then you may be able to help him or her avoid crash injuries by purchasing a safe vehicle. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Look for a vehicle with advanced safety features;
- Limit the horsepower;
- Choose a big vehicle;
- And check safety ratings.
If you or your teen was injured by a negligent driver in Louisiana, contact a Shreveport auto accident attorney from Morris Bart, LLC. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, time off work and other damages.
Here are four tips to keep in mind when purchasing a vehicle for your child:
Look for a Vehicle with Advanced Safety Features
Modern vehicles come with a range of advanced safety features. Try to find a model with blind spot detection, collision and lane departure warnings, a rear bumper camera, and electronic stability control. These can help your child avoid common accident scenarios.
You should also consider installing a system to limit cell phone functions while the vehicle is running. Systems such as Cellcontrol can help your teen avoid distracted-driving accidents.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Limit the Horsepower
Do not purchase a vehicle that is too powerful for a new driver. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, powerful engines tempt teenagers to push the limits, and they may not be able to handle the force and acceleration of a fast car. Even though your teen may object, it is safer to look for a vehicle that has low horsepower.
Choose a Big Vehicle
Large, heavy vehicles are safer than smaller sedans. Although some models are prone to rollovers at high speed, SUVs are usually safer for new drivers than small cars.
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Check Safety Ratings
You should only purchase a vehicle that received high safety ratings in reputable tests. In particular, look for a car that has high ratings on side-crash tests, and a minimum of four stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
If you or a loved one was injured by a negligent motorist, then you may have grounds for a claim against the at-fault driver. A Shreveport car accident attorney from Morris Bart, LLC can evaluate your case, gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
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