Auto insurance rates are influenced by many factors – your age, driving record, location, and more. But did you know that the safety features on your vehicle also impact what you pay for insurance? Technology in modern cars prevents accidents and reduces injuries. Most models have airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Premiums are calculated based on these safety enhancements. Insurance discounts are available for vehicles with more safety features.
Protecting passengers with airbags and seatbelts
An airbag and seatbelt are designed to keep passengers safe. Statistics show that airbags reduce the risk of dying in a direct frontal collision by 30%. Seatbelts are even more effective, cutting the risk of fatality by 45%. With protective gear like this, insurance companies know that the likelihood of severe injury and death goes down. Costs associated with claims and payouts for medical bills are lower as well. Collision coverage for airbag-equipped vehicles will be discounted. Make sure to activate any discounts by informing your agent about the safety features of your car.
Anti-Lock brakes shorten stopping distance
Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) prevent wheels from locking up and skidding during emergency braking situations. Shorter stopping distances also mean fewer accidents. IIHS estimates that ABS-equipped cars have 22% fewer fatal accidents than those without. Insurance companies reward the system with discounts for reducing collision claims. Expect a 5% to 15% reduction on your premium if your vehicle has ABS. When in the market for a new car, choosing one with ABS could provide significant savings over time.
Traction control boosts driving stability
Similar to ABS, traction control works to apply brake pressure to wheels that begin to spin on slippery surfaces. Drivers maintain control by avoiding skids and fishtailing. Traction control comes standard on most new vehicles today. Accident avoidance and stability are valued by insurers. Vehicles with traction control qualify for a discount on Thai Voluntary Motor Insurance Coverage Type 3. Make sure your policy accurately reflects all active safety equipment, as the premium savings are substantial. Over the life of your policy, traction control could save you several hundred dollars in insurance costs.
Electronic stability control minimizes risk of rollovers
A step beyond ABS and traction control is electronic stability control (ESC). To keep the vehicle balanced and going in the intended direction, the system brakes each wheel selectively and reduces engine power. Injuries caused by rollovers and spin-outs are prevented by ESC. Studies conducted by the IIHS show that ESC reduces fatal single-vehicle crashes by 56%. U.S. statistics indicate that it saves over 10,000 lives a year. Insurance companies are eager to offer discounts with such protection. Vehicles with ESC qualify for up to a 10% reduction in collision premiums from most major providers.
