Keeping It Safe & Comfortable: What To Look For When Buying or Leasing An Automobile

Life is full of decisions and some are easier to make than others. One of the most exciting, yet difficult, decisions for many people is choosing the right vehicle to lease or buy. You may be into sleek, red sports cars, or maybe you have a family and more of the white minivan type. No matter what your preference, though, you probably want your new vehicle to be as safe as possible. This is particularly true if you plan on transporting children in your car. But with hundreds of makes and models on the market, many with new technological advances such as keyless entry/push-button ignitions, rear view cameras, heated/air conditioned seats, and automatic braking systems, choosing the right automobile is no simple task. Here are some things to look for when leasing or buying a car this season.

All-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive Or Front-Wheel Drive?

There is no question that Colorado weather is snowy for a great portion of the year. Cars that are equipped with 4-wheel drive (4WD) are the best for maneuvering through the snow. But, 4WD is not helpful when it comes to driving on icy and provides little traction when you make turns and brake. On the other hand, vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) do give you more traction, but at the cost of a decreased ability to navigate through snow-packed roadways. A great alternative to this problem is selecting a car with front-wheel drive (FWD). Vehicles with FWD put more of your car's weight on the front wheels, and pull your vehicle rather than push it. This will allow you to traverse safely in snowy or icy conditions.

Electronic Stability Control

Electronic stability control (ESC) is one of the safest features in your new car, and especially helpful for driving in winter conditions. ESC helps to literally stabilize your vehicle, which can help prevent you from spinning out and/or losing control of your vehicle. Your car's ESC system utilizes internal sensors and microcomputer that keeps track of your steering at all times. The ESC feature can apply the brakes or regulate your car's engine power, allowing you to better control your vehicle. As of 2012, federal law requires all new vehicles to come equipped with ESC technology.

Forward Collision Avoidance System    

One of the newest advancements in vehicle technology is the forward collision avoidance system. This system utilizes a combination of sensors, cameras and radar to detect cars and other property in front of your vehicle. Recent studies revealed that the number of claims for property liability has decreased in the makes/models that come equipped with forward collision avoidance systems.

Headlights That Adapt

Many luxury and newer vehicles also have adaptive headlights. These headlights are built with sensors that gauge the road ahead, and then adjust your headlights' position so that they directly hit the road in front of you. This is extremely useful at night and when driving on winding or curved roads. According to the national Highway Loss Data Institute, adaptive headlights have also contributed to a decrease in property damage claims.

Though purchasing a vehicle can be daunting, look for vehicles with the above safety features to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

If you or your child was injured during spring break, you may be able to file a lawsuit to compensate you for your injuries. Whether it is an auto accident, a fall, or an assault, the experienced attorneys at the Law Office of Jeremy Rosenthal can help you get the justice you deserve.

For more information about your rights and legal options, schedule a free consultation with our office today by calling (303) 647-4511, or visit us online. You have nothing to lose with a free conversation.