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If you are looking to purchase a vehicle, purchasing a used vehicle may be a smart safety decision compared to purchasing a new vehicle which may have fewer safety features because of price considerations.

New technology is introduced every year by U. S. vehicle manufacturers. The technology is often required by law or just new features manufacturers add to their vehicle offerings to attract buyers. This technology, according to Consumer Reports (June 2015) rapidly depreciates, and after a few years, the price gap between basic and top-trim models can shrink substantially. If vehicle shoppers cannot afford to purchase new vehicles with upgraded safety technology, they may be better advised to purchase a late-model used vehicle with safety features, according to Consumer Reports.

When looking to replace a vehicle, Consumer Reports recommends selecting one that tested well when it was first introduced, with good crash-test results and proven reliability. Price and condition are also to be considered. They further recommend focusing on technology. Purchase used vehicles that meet all the above criteria along with possessing the latest technology available such as the basic features of side and head curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control which became mandated with the 2012 vehicle roll-out, and rear-view cameras which were widely available on vehicles prior to 2012. Safety experts say electronic stability control is an essential safety feature if you are buying an SUV as this feature regularly saves lives in accidents.  Also, look for crash prevention systems including blind-spot monitors, forward collision warning systems and lane drifting warnings.

The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) is funded by automotive insurance companies and is a non-profit organization that conducts research on popular cars to help automobile manufacturers and consumers learn about potential safety issues. David Zuby, Executive Vice President for IIHS said, "Designing vehicles with the idea that they should protect people in the event of a crash makes a difference in the level of protection that you ultimately receive." Researchers at IIHS conduct crash tests two times a week for "crashworthiness evaluations". These evaluations are conducted with vehicles often going at a speed of 40 mph. Danny Ramirez, Assistant Director of Crash Worthiness Evaluations at IIHS says, "What people should take away from this is it makes a difference what kind of car you drive."

"Be sure to include checking the IIHS crashworthiness and crash avoidance and mitigation evaluations on its website before purchasing any vehicle. Here is a link to the IIHS website: IIHS Test Results," said Fort Myers Vehicle Accident Attorney, Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

Fort Myers Vehicle Accident Attorney, Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839,or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.