Women & Families

Teen Driver Safety Series, Part Four

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In our previous installments in this series, we've focused mostly on the behavior of teen drivers. We've looked at accident statistics, education, driving patterns, imbibing habits (drugs and alcohol), peer pressure and social influences. We've also examined the trends that shape the average American's relationship with his transportation, which could, in turn, influence the way a young person behaves behind the wheel.

Understanding these issues is crucial to keeping our youngest drivers out of harm's way. Still, there's another factor, often overlooked, that affects the safety of teen drivers. Specifically, what kind of car does your teen drive?

In certain instances, vehicle choice can mean the difference between life and death. Obviously, a car's crashworthiness and rollover characteristics play a vital role in protecting both the driver and occupants; but other factors, such as the condition of the tires or the status of the cooling system, can also affect a vehicle's overall dependability, and thus increase the risk of breakdown.

In this installment, our fourth in the series, let's take a look at the safety considerations to keep in mind when selecting a young person's vehicle.

So what do you look for when shopping for a car for your teen driver?

New Cars: Clearly, when buying a new vehicle, there's less to worry about in terms of maintenance and upkeep. The main concern, then, centers around crash resistance and structural integrity. This falls into several different areas.

1. Crash-test scores: These play an increasingly important role in helping consumers determine the crash-worthiness of a particular vehicle. Crash-test scores give the best picture yet of the ability of a vehicle to withstand a front or side impact. Case in point: One of our editors attended a trade show and had to rent a car. His rental was a 2001 Chevy Cavalier, a vehicle his daughter had expressed interest in buying. When our editor returned from his trip, he immediately went on the NHTSA Web site and checked out the crash-test scores on the 2001 Cavalier. Very poor side-impact scores. As a result, the Cavalier is no longer on his list. (On the other hand, the 2001 Honda Civic, another contender, had much better side-impact scores, and has remained under consideration.) While crash-test scores are approximate, they represent an excellent appraisal of the structural integrity of a particular model. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also conducts crash testing. Use both of these sources to narrow down your choices and keep your child safe.
   
   
2. Rollover risk: Most people know by now that SUVs, trucks and other truck-based vehicles have a higher center of gravity and are more prone to roll over than passenger cars. NHTSA offers rollover resistance ratings for a number of vehicles. Be aware, however, that these ratings are looked down upon in the automotive industry, as they are based upon a mathematical calculation rather than real-life crash testing. Still, they offer some guidance as to what vehicles to buy and which ones to avoid.
   
   
3. Size: On the other hand, a vehicle's size can offer protection during a collision. Big vehicles have a larger crumple zone, which can limit injuries in an accident. So what do you do? Our recommendation: buy your novice driver a non-truck-based vehicle with excellent crash-test scores and focus on defensive driving skills. Many, although not all, accidents occur due to operator error. Teaching your child solid driving skills is a gift that will last a lifetime.
   
   
4. Reliability: Certain models, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, have legendary reputations for drivetrain reliability. However, they also cost more. If you can afford it, consider buying your child a model with a great reputation. It may save her from being stranded by the side of the road someday, and the added sense of security will benefit the whole family.