Tampa Auto Accidents Attorney Dale Appell, P.A. Recommends Safety Features to Look for when Buying a Car

Automobile designs have improved immeasurably in the past 50 years. In addition to convenience features like a GPS directional system to help you find your way around the Tampa Bay area, and fold-down seats to give you more hauling room, automobiles are now packed with safety equipment that many of us take for granted. As a consumer looking to buy a new car, you may see safety features advertised for various car models and wonder which safety features are must-haves. While just about any safety feature is a step in the right direction, Tampa auto accidents attorney Dale Appell, P.A. suggests that you consider the following top automobile safety features in your next car:

1. Electronic stability control—This system can detect when your vehicle is about to skid out of control or tip over, and it can also automatically bring your car or truck back under control.
2. Anti-lock brakes—Brakes that lock up can send your car into an uncontrollable skid, especially if you are in a situation that forces you to brake quickly. Anti-lock brakes prevent the possibility of skidding, even in cases of hard, fast stops.
3. Airbags—When used correctly, airbags can protect you from serious injury. Side airbags that are made to protect the head are also quite effective. If you drive a car with airbags, make sure to follow the directions (i.e. don't sit too close to the airbag and be aware of the other possible dangers associated with them).
4. Crash test ratings—Check the vehicle's crash test ratings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.nhtsa.dot.gov) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).
5. Child safety seat features— If you will be driving with small children in the car, look for latching and seatbelt options that are compatible with child safety seats.
6. Head restraints—Some cars come with special head restraints that move up and forward in the event of a rear-end impact. This feature "catches" your head and reduces the possibility of whiplash.
7. Automatic crash notification—OnStar is probably the most well-known automatic crash notification system. This system notifies emergency personnel if you are in an automobile accident and summons them to your location, ensuring the fastest medical assistance possible.

Of course, none of the above safety features can take the place of wearing a seatbelt at all times. However, the safety features found on today's automobiles have already been credited with saving thousands of lives and preventing countless serious injuries.

Unfortunately, no safety feature can stop every accident or injury. For those who have been injured in a car or truck accident in the greater Tampa Bay area, Tampa auto accidents attorney Dale Appell, P.A. is here to give you a free assessment of your case. We fight for justice for the injured in Tampa and all surrounding areas including Dade City, Largo, Hudson, Clearwater, Hernando, St Petersburg, Dunedin, Hillsborough, and beyond.