Thanks to improvements in motor vehicle safety, there have been fewer traffic deaths and injuries.
For example, new vehicle models must meet Canadian standards as described in the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations.
These include standards that relate to where controls are (like lights and windshield
wipers), and how easy it is to locate them. There are also standards for braking systems.
A national safety mark tells the consumer that the vehicle has met the standards.
However, other safety features are not required, and consumers must decide which of
these are priorities when they choose vehicles. There is no one vehicle that will meet
everyone’s needs. The best approach is to decide which safety features are most
important to you, and go from there. Here are some factors to consider as you make your
choice:
Safety features
- Adjustable shoulder belts on seat belts allow passengers to get the best fit for
their seatbelt
- Adjustable head restraints allow drivers and passengers to reduce the risk of neck injuries that result from head rests that are the wrong size for them.
- Driver and passenger airbags work along with seat
belts. They are designed to prevent passengers from hitting the dashboard, steering wheel
or windshield during front-end collisions.
- Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) prevent the vehicle’s wheels from locking up
during a "panic" stop. This allows the driver to maintain control of steering.
- Side impact protection is required in all vehicles. How this protects you may vary
from one vehicle model to another.
Crash test results
- test how well front seat passengers would be protected in a front-end collision, and
- only compare from one car to another within the same weight categories.
Other factors
Final things to consider as you narrow down your choice include:
- where you plan to drive most of the time. For example, are you in an urban or rural
area, and will you be driving on streets or highways? Depending on your situation, you may
want to look into:
- All Wheel Drive
- 4 Wheel Drive
- traction control systems
- rollover risk
- whether head restraints, roof structure, and windshield design fit the driver’s
size. Drivers need to be able to see all around them.
Remember, the most important safety feature is the driver.
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