Top Safety Features to Look for When Buying a Car (And Why They Matter)

When shopping for a new or used vehicle, most buyers focus on looks, comfort, or performance. But when it comes to long-term value and peace of mind, safety features should be a top priority.

With over 42,500 traffic fatalities reported in the U.S. in 2022 (NHTSA), it’s clear that the road can be unpredictable. Fortunately, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety technologies designed to reduce crashes and save lives.

Here are some of the top safety features to look for—and why each one matters.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

What it does:

AEB systems use sensors (radar, cameras, or both) to detect potential collisions with a vehicle or object ahead. If the driver doesn’t respond in time, the system automatically applies the brakes to avoid or reduce the severity of a crash.

Why it matters:
According to IIHS research, vehicles equipped with front AEB systems see 50% fewer rear-end crashes. This feature is especially helpful in stop-and-go traffic or when a driver is momentarily distracted.

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)

What it does:
BSM alerts the driver when another vehicle is in their blind spot, typically using visual icons in the side mirrors and/or audible alerts if a lane change is attempted.

Why it matters:
Blind spot crashes cause thousands of injuries each year. BSM can reduce lane-change crashes by up to 14%, according to a study by the IIHS. It adds an extra set of “eyes” when merging or switching lanes—especially on busy highways.

Lane Departure Warning / Lane Keeping Assist

What it does:
Lane Departure Warning alerts you when your vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane, while Lane Keeping Assist gently steers you back to center if you don’t respond.

Why it matters:
Drowsy or distracted driving contributes to thousands of accidents annually. These systems can reduce single-vehicle, sideswipe, and head-on crashes by 11%, providing an important layer of protection when focus fades.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

What it does:
When reversing, this feature detects approaching traffic from the sides—like a car coming down the aisle in a parking lot—and warns the driver to stop.

Why it matters:
Backing out of driveways or parking spaces is a common cause of low-speed accidents. This technology is especially useful in busy or obstructed parking areas, preventing collisions that might otherwise be hard to see coming.

Adaptive Headlights

What it does:
Adaptive headlights pivot in the direction of your steering, improving visibility on curves and corners at night.

Why it matters:
The IIHS has found that better headlights can improve nighttime visibility and reduce crash rates. Adaptive headlights can decrease property damage liability claims by up to 10%, making nighttime driving safer and more comfortable.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

What it does:

ESC helps prevent skidding and loss of control during sudden turns or slick conditions by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels.

Why it matters:

ESC has been shown to reduce fatal single-vehicle crashes by 49%, and is especially critical in poor weather or emergency maneuvers. It’s been mandatory on new cars since 2012—but always check if it’s present on older used models.

Rearview Cameras

What it does:
A rearview camera displays a live video feed of what’s behind your car when backing up.

Why it matters:
According to NHTSA, rearview cameras reduce backover accidents and are now required on all new cars. They provide much-needed visibility when reversing—especially in areas with children or pets.

When it comes to purchasing a car, safety isn’t just another line item—it’s the foundation of everything else. Features like automatic braking, blind spot detection, and lane-keeping systems can make all the difference in avoiding or surviving a crash.

At Autosport Bodyworks, we’ve seen firsthand how safety systems protect drivers and passengers during collisions. If you’ve been in an accident and need expert repairs, trust our experienced team to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition—safely and professionally.

Want help making sure your vehicle’s safety systems are properly functioning after a crash? Schedule a consultation with our certified technicians today.