2020 Car Models Park Car Until Seat Belts Are Fastened

In 2016, almost 300,000 teenagers were treated for injuries sustained in car accidents, with 2,433 of those teenagers suffering fatal injuries. Car accidents are the leading cause of fatalities among teenagers. New and inexperienced drivers are notorious for not wearing their seat belts, with teenagers being the highest percentage among drivers. Wearing your seat belt is perhaps the easiest way to prevent injuries in an accident. General Motors is introducing a safety feature in their Chevrolet and GMC models aimed directly at teens to instill the habit of wearing their seat belts. This feature, called Buckle to Drive, will lock the transmission in park until the occupants buckle their seat belt.

Buckle to Drive

Buckle to Drive will be standard on many of Chevrolet’s 2020 models, including the Chevrolet Traverse and Malibu, and the GMC Canyon. Other GM brands, specifically their luxury brands, Buick and Cadillac, will have this feature soon. Safety is a priority for all car manufacturers, particularly General Motors, who is one of the largest manufacturers in the United States. Other global manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz, who introduced a heated seat belt encouraging its use, are also thinking of innovative ways to remind drivers to wear their seat belt.

General Motors introduced their Teen Driver package in 2015 and has helped parents protect their teen drivers in a variety of ways. When activated, the computer system tracks the vehicle’s speed, location, and usage, and reports back to the driver’s parent. It also activates all the driver assist systems to better protect the teen driver.

Talk to Your Teen

Parents should have a conversation with their teenager regarding the high fatality rate while behind the wheel and the ways it can be prevented. Parents should remind their teens that distracted driving, drunk driving, and reckless driving are very serious issues with hefty consequences. Even reminding them to buckle up before they head out on the road can go a long way. General Motors and other car manufacturers are fortunately finding ways to help parents keep their teen drivers safe.

Camden Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Help Injured Victims of Motor Vehicle Accidents

If you or your teenage driver have been injured in a car accident, the Camden car accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law can help. We will hold the negligent party accountable and obtain the justice you deserve. Call us today at 856-414-0010 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey, including Mt. Holly, Cherry Hill, and Camden County.