(LOS ANGELES, July 28, 2008) - Consumers looking for hybrids and other fuel sippers that are safe for themselves and also their families can compare models with AAA's Buying a Safer Car 2008 brochure containing comprehensive consumer information on crash tests, rollover ratings and safety features.
Available online and at the Automobile Club of Southern California's local offices, the brochure was produced jointly by AAA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Buying a Safer Car provides valuable safety information for all new cars, hybrids, and other vehicles that save fuel. It also includes crash-test ratings for those vehicles.
"The information in this brochure enables motorists to compare all new vehicle features to ensure getting the best value while seeking a hybrid or another vehicle that maximizes fuel economy and also has the safety features that motorists also desire," said Steve Mazor, manager of the Auto Club's Automotive Research Center.
According to Mazor, of the nearly 2 million injury-causing crashes each year, the majority are either frontal or side crashes. The brochure separates vehicles into categories by type and size and rates them (1 to 5 stars) by how much they exceed the federal government's minimum standards.
The brochure offers tips to help reduce the risk of injury from any frontal air bag by observing the following:
- Buckle up.
- Keep 10 inches or more between your chest and the air bag cover.
- Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an air bag, even a reduced-power or advanced air bag, unless the air bag on-off switch is in the OFF position.
- Place children ages 13 and under in the back seat and make sure they are properly restrained, either in seat belts or child safety seats that are appropriate for their size, weight and age.
For more information, go to www.AAA.com/publicaffairs or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.