Getting a new car? No doubt you have specific requirements, which could range from leg room, sound system, upholstery, body paint color, model, brand, etc. However, personal preferences aside, never take safety features for granted.

In particular, be sure to carefully consider these safety features as you narrow down your choices:

1. Anti-lock braking system

ABS is a safety anti-skid braking system used on both on aircraft and land vehicles. Anti-lock braking systems are independent of driver control and prevent the wheels from locking up when the brakes are applied, ensuring traction and steering control. This is a significant factor in preventing accidents.

2. Blind spot monitoring/warning

This feature uses of sensors or cameras to detect any vehicles approaching from your blind spot. Some systems will give you a warning either on the front mirrors or outboard mirrors; others sound a warning if you drift out of your lane or put your turn signal on when another vehicle is in your blind spot.

3. Adaptive airbags

Airbags have come such a long way from 1998, when they first became a standard safety feature for cars. These days, newer vehicles come with adaptive airbags, which can detect the weight and position of the driver and front passenger and are capable of gradually adapting to the pressure as the bag inflates. In the event of an accident, the adaptive airbag system minimizes the effect of impact and helps to save lives.

4. Adaptive headlights

Night vision is crucial in driving at night. Adaptive headlights effectively reduce glare and give you better night vision by reacting to the speed, steering, and elevation of your car and then clearly illuminating the road based on your car’s direction. They also make you easily visible to other drivers.

5. Tire pressure monitoring system

Your tires are highly vulnerable to damage from the road. Tire pressure can easily decrease with temperature changes. This can lead to blowouts or increased wear. Getting a car with a tire pressure monitoring system is a wise safety move. Just make sure it’s working properly, as well as make sure to check your tires’ pressure every month using a manual gauge.

6. Electronic stability control 

Electronic stability control (ESC)—also called electronic stability program (ESP), or dynamic stability control (DSC)—uses computerized sensors to keep your vehicle from sliding or skidding. This feature is especially helpful in taller vehicles (SUVs, pickups, etc.), which have a greater tendency to roll over. Some ESC systems also reduce engine power until you have regained control of your car.

7. Automatic high beam

Nighttime driving difficulties can be decreased with the automatic high beam. As long as there is no oncoming traffic and cars in front of you, the system turns on the high beam headlight to illuminate the road 350 to 400 feet, giving you a clear view of what’s ahead. The high beam headlights are automatically switched off when there’s an approaching vehicle or there are cars ahead of you, ensuring that the other drivers are not blinded.

Embark on a long journey with your new car by making sure it comes with the safety features that really do the job of helping you, as well as other drivers, stay safe out on the road.

If you’re looking for other products and services that don’t come with your manufacturer’s warranty, check out our products.