Editor’s note: This post has very little to do with Security Driving and everything to do with the safety and security of your family in general and your teenage children. As we (ISDA) have mentioned many times, the time an executive spends in their vehicle is the highest risk period of their day. What we all need to keep in mind is that the time their family spends in a vehicle is also a high-risk scenario, especially for younger drivers.
The day every parent dreads, the kid is old enough to drive and wants a car.
Among the most fear invoking events in a ‘parent’s life is the reality that their child has reached driving age. Ignore for the moment that this event is also the mile marker that you are now officially old and irrelevant in your ‘child’s life, pondering that is for another day.
Also, quiet that inner voice that tells you that the little imp probably ‘shouldn’t be allowed to be in control of anything more dangerous than a plastic spoon. You remember what you did in your first car. Take a deep breath; shudder is a natural reaction.
However, reality bites. It’s inevitable; precious is going to get a car. So what do you do?
Safety is your first thought, yes? Of course?
The question is, then, what are the safest cars for teenagers? Relax, help has arrived.
“Parents looking for a safe, affordable vehicle for their teen driver have many more options than just a year ago. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has updated its recommendations for used vehicles for teens, and the list has grown by more than 50 percent, even though the price and safety criteria haven’t changed.”
‘It’s a lengthy list that covers vehicles ranging from cars to SUVs, minivans to pick-ups.
IIHS also offers three tips for teen car buying:
- High horsepower should be avoided.
- Bigger, heavier vehicles are safer.
- Electronic stability control is a must.
We now know where Captain Obvious works. Nevertheless, the IIHS is a good source for a list of safe cars. As a security driver, people will think that you are a good source of information about safe cars. With this in hand, you won’t disappoint.
Your boss, clients, friends, and family, and complete strangers will be impressed and thankful.
About the Author
Michael Nossaman is president of the Protective Security Council, which he founded in 2007. He is president of Varro Press, publisher of security and law enforcement books. He is a member of ASIS International and a founding member of the Advisory Board of the American Board for Certification in Dignitary & Executive Protection. From 1988 to 1993, he was Chief Administrative Officer of the Tactical Response Association International.