Is Your Car Safe? 6 Car Safety Myths Debunked

Every year, there are more than 6 million car accidents in the US. While not all of these accidents result in injury, many injuries that are sustained are preventable. It's important as a driver to understand the truth and the myths about car safety. Here are 6 car safety myths you might have previously assumed were truths:

SEE ALSO: When Your Man Loves His Car More Than You

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1: It is Safer Not to Wear a Seat Belt in an Accident

Many people tell their accident attorneyMcdonough that they chose not to wear their seat belt because they have been told that they hurt individuals in an accident. While seat belts can cause bruises or cuts, the injuries caused by the seat belt don't compare to the life threatening injuries that could have been sustained if the person wasn't wearing their seat belt. Always buckle up.

2: Airbags Will Make Any Car Safe

Airbags are a safety feature that is required in modern cars. Many assume that any car with airbags is safer than a car that doesn't have airbags, but this isn't always the case. A heavy-built vehicle that weighs 5000 pounds will always be safer than a compact car with front airbags. This is why kids air safer in a school bus then a car.

3: SUVs and Minivans Are the Safest Cars for Families

If you are buying an SUV or a minivan because you believe the vehicle the safest choice for your family, think again. These vehicles are light trucks, and light trucks aren't required to meet the same impact standards as other private passenger vehicles. SUVs also pose a huge risk of rollover.

4: Children Don't Need to Be in the Back Seat

Your child may want to sit up front, but don't allow it. Kids aren't fully developed and an airbag can lead to injury. Children also aren't mature enough not to be a distraction while sitting up front.

5: Driving Slow is Safer

Speed limits are set for a reason. While speeding can be dangerous, individuals who drive much slower than the posted speed limit can actually lead to more serious accidents with a larger group of drivers. Slow drivers affect the flow of traffic and are 6 times more likely to cause an accident.

6: Older Cars Aren't Safe

New safety equipment is required in vehicle to keep individuals safe, but that doesn't mean classics can't be safe. While ABS braking systems can help drivers, drivers who don't have an ABS system won't have to worry about the braking system locking up. Older cars are also made of heavier metal and not plastic like many modern models.

It's important to know the difference between the myths and the truth. Keep this information in mind, and always be a safe driver.

Brionna

About the Author:

Brionna Kennedy is native to the Pacific Northwest, growing up in Washington, then moving down to Oregon for college. She enjoys writing on fashion and business, but any subject will do, she loves to learn about new topics. When she isn't writing, she lives for the outdoors. Oregon has been the perfect setting to indulge her love of kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking.