A recent survey by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that teenagers were involved in 31% of all fatal crashes involving a teenage driver. While there are many factors that contribute to teen driver crashes, the type of car a teen drives can make a big difference.
* Larger, heavier vehicles are more forgiving of mistakes. A smaller car is more likely to be seriously damaged or rolled over in a crash.
* Vehicles with electronic stability control (ESC) are much less likely to be involved in a fatal crash. ESC can help prevent a car from skidding or rolling over.
* Four-wheel drive vehicles can be helpful in slippery conditions, but they are not a substitute for good driving habits.
Specific Best Car Options
In addition to the general factors listed above, there are also some specific car models that are considered to be good choices for new teen drivers.
- Ford Escape
- Honda CR-V
- Hyundai Tucson
- Jeep Wrangler
- Nissan Rogue
- Toyota RAV4
- Volkswagen Tiguan
Tips for Buying a Car for a New Teen Driver
When shopping for a car for your new teen driver, keep these tips in mind:
* Start your search early. The best time to buy a car is before your teen needs it. This will give you time to do your research and find the best deal.
* Set a budget. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.
* Consider the safety features. As mentioned above, the type of car a teen drives can make a big difference in the event of a crash. Make sure the car you choose has good safety features, such as ESC and airbags.
* Test drive several cars. Once you've found a few cars that meet your criteria, take them for a test drive. This will give you a chance to see how the car handles and if it's comfortable for you and your teen.
* Get a pre-purchase inspection. Before you buy a used car, be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. This will help you identify any potential problems with the car.
* Insure the car. Teen drivers are considered high-risk drivers, so it's important to make sure the car you buy is properly insured.
By following these tips, you can help your new teen driver stay safe on the road.
