Having advanced safety features on an automobile can be life-saving in the event of an accident. But the equipment may also lead to lower auto insurance premiums. When insurers know a vehicle is equipped with certain items that may reduce the risk of injury, they may consider the owner a lower risk, translating into lower premiums.
There are a number of auto safety features that drivers should look for before buying a vehicle. Even though some of them are standard on many models, they can still have a potential auto insurance benefit for owners.
Seat belts can help save more than just lives
Every vehicle manufactured in the U.S. comes equipped with seat belts. However, automatic seat belts, which are offered on some vehicles, could potentially lower the cost of car insurance. Seat belts save an estimated 14,154 lives per year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, they can only be effective when worn.
Airbags can help lower the cost of car insurance
Airbags are another safety feature that may contribute to lower auto insurance premiums, since they can reduce the risk of death in the event of a collision. Airbags, which deploy in the event of a strong impact, save approximately 2,288 lives per year, according to the NHTSA.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-lock brake systems are also an important safety feature. ABS prevents a car’s wheels from locking in the event that a driver suddenly needs to apply a lot of pressure to the brakes. Brakes that lock could potentially cause a car to skid out of control, resulting in a serious accident. Some states, including New York, have created laws requiring auto insurers to offer discounts for drivers with anti-lock brakes.
Theft Deterrents
In addition to features that keep passengers inside a vehicle safe, equipment that may protect the vehicle itself can also potentially lead to lower insurance rates. Anti-theft systems can reduce a car’s chance of being broken into or stolen and may also make it easier to find in the event that it is taken. Drivers can also place locks on their tires, steering wheels and car hoods to prevent theft of the car or its parts.
Though safety features generally lead to lower premiums, there are a number of factors that determine the cost of car insurance, and each insurer uses different calculations. Getting car insurance quotes online is a great way to estimate how much car insurance costs for a particular vehicle.