Modern cars have many safety features that can save your life

FED-UP authorities are urging motorists to embrace the newest technology available, with research overwhelmingly showing that modern safety features save lives.

FED-UP authorities are urging motorists to embrace the newest technology available, with research overwhelmingly showing that modern safety features save lives.

New data from the Transport Accident Commission shows that the majority of fatal accidents involving young Victorians happen in cars that are more than 10 years old.

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Modern safety features could be the difference between “a fright and a fatality”.

Older vehicles made up 70 per cent of accidents to children aged between five and 15 over the past decade.

TAC lead director of Road Safety Samantha Cockfield said older models now made up the majority of cars involved in the deaths of young people.

“More modern vehicles are more likely to have safety features that we know save lives,” she said.

“The best thing all young people can do is get the safest car they can afford.”

“Affordability is a motivation for young people buying their first car, but safety doesn’t mean buying a new luxury car, there are plenty of safe options out there that suit all budgets.”

Ms Cockfield said modern safety features, such as anti-lock braking system (ABS) and rear facing cameras could be the difference between “a fright and a fatality”.

“We know young drivers are already more susceptible to crashes in their early years on the road, which makes it all the more important to ensure they are driving the safest vehicles possible,” she said.

Studies show rear cameras can reduce accidents involving reveals by up to 40 per cent.

Studies by the Monash University Accident and Research Centre have revealed that installing rear cameras in cars could reduce accidentals involving reveals by up to 40 per cent.

If the average age of the Australian light vehicle fleet was reduced by one year it is expected there would be a 5.4 per cent reduction in crashes, slashing fatalities and preventing thousands of injuries.

MUARC associate professor Dr Jennie Oxley said parents should buy safer cars and encourage their children to do the same.

“There are increasing trends of parents their children cars … They play a huge role and there are resources out for parents about this.

“The difference of a few thousands dollars could save someone’s life.”

The Andrews Government has made safer vehicle a key part of its road toll strategy and have required all government vehicles be fitted with the best available safety features.

Victoria Police are also touring across the state to ensure parents are making full use of safety features to protect young children, with sessions at Springvale Service for Children this Friday and Saturday.

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