Spring brings warmer weather, plenty of sunshine, and new blooms. But it also brings its share of storms, road glare, and other driving hazards. Here’s how you can stay safe when driving this spring.
Tip #1: Drive slowly and use caution in the rain.
Roads are most slippery when it starts to rain. This is due to rainwater mixing with the oil and grease on the road. But whether the rain has just begun or it’s been coming down for a while, it still makes roads slick.
Keep your headlights on so that you are more easily seen.
Slow down and increase your following distance from other cars. Remember that any amount of water could cause you to skid or hydroplane.
Make sure your tires have enough tread and your wiper blades are in good condition.
Avoid using cruise control in the rain.
Avoid driving through water, which can damage your vehicle. If there’s too large a puddle, consider an alternate route.
Tip #2: Avoid potholes and puddles that could be covering potholes.
Freezing, thawing, and road salt in winter can help to create potholes. That’s why you may notice more of them in the spring. If you hit a pothole at too high a speed, or if it’s too deep, there could be problems. Potholes can lead to punctured tires, bent rims, suspension damage, poor alignment, or other expensive repairs.
You may or may not see potholes coming. It’s even harder when they’re covered by puddles. Slow down and drive around both potholes and puddles.
Keep a safe distance when following another vehicle.
Keep both hands on the wheel to avoid losing control if you do strike a pothole.
If you encounter a pothole that is especially large or deep, try to find another route.
Tip #3: Be prepared for sun glare.
Spring is known for its bright sunshine that can temporarily blind you when you’re driving. The hours following dawn and preceding sunset are typically the times when the sun is the brightest.
Position the sun visor in your car to block the light.
Sometimes moving the visors don’t do it. Sunglasses help reduce the sun’s intensity. Keep a pair handy in your car. Wearing a hat or sun visor can help too.
Slow down. Give yourself plenty of distance behind the car in front.
Keep your windshield clean. Dust, dirt, and pollen can make the glare worse.
Pull over if you can’t see.
Tip #4: Share the road with construction, bikes, pedestrians, and kids playing.
Spring weather brings everyone out. That includes construction crews, bicyclists, pedestrians, and of course, children playing. Awareness is the first step.
Drive slowly in residential areas. If a ball goes bouncing into the street, chances are there will be a child chasing it.
Stop and give the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Never pass vehicles that are stopped at crosswalks.
Slow down and follow signs for new traffic patterns in construction zones. Solid lines in construction zones mean “stay in your lane.”
Learn biking hand signals, and look for bicycles before you make turns. Allow plenty of space when passing bicyclists.
Tip #5: Be on the lookout for deer at dawn and dusk.
Deer migrate during the spring and sometimes venture too close to roads. A collision with a deer is not only fatal for them; it’s costly in terms of vehicle repairs.
Be especially careful during dawn and dusk when deer activity is at its highest.
Look out for deer crossing signs. These are posted at locations where deer sightings are common.
Use high beams at night as long as facing traffic isn’t coming.
If a collision seems inevitable, do not swerve into the other lane. You could hit a vehicle and cause an accident that’s worse.
Brake firmly, and try to graze the deer rather than hit it. Ease up on the brake just before you connect with the deer. It will cause your vehicle to lift a bit, which might keep the animal from hitting your windshield.
Tip #6: Know how spring allergies can affect your driving.
Spring is a time for allergies. Driving with sneezing, runny eyes and nose, and congestion can be a big distraction. But allergy medications that cause drowsiness could do greater harm.
Read the warning label on your allergy medication. If it warns against driving or operating heavy machinery, don’t do it.
Replace your car’s air filters to ensure they are filtering pollen, mold, and other allergens.
Consider washable car mats instead of cloth ones so you can clean them. Give your car a spring cleaning.
Roll up your windows and turn your air conditioner to the recirculation setting. This minimizes the amount of fresh air coming in.
Tip 7: Make sure your vehicle is in good working order.
Keeping your vehicle in top condition will help you navigate the challenges of spring driving more easily. Follow a schedule for regular maintenance.
Check your vehicle’s headlights, turn signals, and tail lights to make sure they are working. Make sure your headlights are aligned.
Check your car’s wipers and replace the blades if they are showing signs of wear.
Check your car’s air conditioning system to make sure it’s working.
Make sure your tires have enough tread and are inflated. As temperatures rise and fall, your car tires may expand and contract. This causes loss of air pressure. You will want your tires to be inflated to manufacturer specifications. Check your owner’s manual.
Finally, make sure you have the proper car insurance. Coverage will give you peace of mind should anything happen.
Now go enjoy the warmer weather. 😊
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You’re ready for a new car—or a new used one. But starting your car search at the dealership puts you at a serious disadvantage. Before you start the process to make such a significant purchase, do your due diligence.
1. Know what you want.
Chances are you already know what you’d love in a new (or new to you) car. You also know what you need. Separate those into two columns: the list of essentials and the list of “nice-to-have” features. Do you drive long distances? You need a car with good gas mileage. Do you have a family of 7? You need enough seating. Do you drive in the snow? All-wheel drive could be a necessity. Do you have the latest smartphone? Bluetooth could be important to you. Knowing what you want in a car is the first step in your car buying journey. Knowing what you need gives you a baseline for your search.
2. Know what you can afford.
A car out of your price range is the wrong car, no matter how many boxes it checks. You need to be able to afford not only the cost of the car but the cost beyond the sticker price. This includes car insurance, registration, taxes, and fees, as well as gas and regular maintenance. Take some time and do a budget on what you can comfortably afford to spend monthly on a car. A good guideline is to spend no more than 20% of your net monthly income. Importantly, keep this number in mind, but keep it to yourself. A car salesman can tempt you with payments stretched out over a longer-term in order to meet your monthly number, but you’ll end up paying more over time.
3. Used or new?
There are pros and cons of buying a new versus a used car. A new car offers the latest technology, including safety features. It’s also under warranty, so if something goes wrong, it’s covered. However, new cars quickly depreciate in value. Used cars depreciate more slowly and are less expensive to start. With a used car, you’ll likely to get outdated technology and less fuel efficiency. There also is the potential for costly maintenance and repairs. If you’re buying a used car, look into pre-certified used options which will come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
4. Buy vs. lease?
Owning your vehicle is the goal for most people; after all, you have something to show for your payments over time. However, leasing can be the right option in some circumstances. A lease is a rental agreement where you pay for use of the car for a specific period of time and then return it or have the option to purchase it. Leasing allows you to drive a car under factory warranty and have the newest technology every few years. It also comes with a lower monthly payment. However, there are mileage restrictions with leases and fees if you end the agreement early. You also don’t have a car to show for it at the end of the leasing period. Buying not only ensures you have a car, but it also allows you to resell it. Plus, after finishing the financing obligation, you’ll be in the coveted spot of having no car payment—at least for a while.
5. Find your current car’s trade-in value.
If you’re going to be trading in your car, knowing its worth will put you in a stronger bargaining position. Check the Kelley Blue Book. Type in your car’s year, make, mileage, and get an estimate of your car’s worth in your region. Use this amount in your negotiations with dealerships and private parties when you trade-in your car as part of the sale.
6. Find potential new and used cars.
There are only so many makes and models in your price range that will fit your needs and wants list. Preview the list before buying so you can start to narrow down your top choices. Read expert reviews, recalls, and road tests. Check out articles like popular cars for parents or if you know your teenager will also be spending time behind the wheel, best cars for teens. Look for used cars within your budget on sites like J.D. Power, Carvana, or CarMax. Note that while you can buy a used car online, you can only buy a new car at a dealership. In the U.S., dealers have the exclusive right to sell them.
7. Think about the best time to buy a car.
You may need a car now. But if you have the luxury of time, you may be able to wait for special pricing, rebates, or promotions—including student or veteran discounts. If you’re not in a hurry, a good time to buy a car is generally between October and December. That’s when dealerships need to make space for new models. They also have year-end quotas to meet. No matter what time of the year, avoid weekends when dealerships are most busy. A weekday will give you more attention and more time to negotiate.
8. Know your financing options.
You may have enough saved to buy your car outright. If not, you have two choices for financing it: direct lending and dealership financing. Independent lenders like your bank may offer a lower interest rate. Dealers however could offer incentives like 0 percent financing. (You may need to qualify with a good credit score.) To put yourself in the strongest possible position to bargain, get preapproved for a car loan. Then, dealerships will treat you as a cash customer rather than a monthly payer.
9. Check your credit score.
Your credit score could determine the interest rate on your loan. Check your score so there are no surprises. You can get a free credit report from each of three nationwide credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
10. Research dealerships.
Just as you will research your car, you’ll also want to learn about the places where you might buy it. Read dealership reviews to get a sense of how happy customers are. Ask family and friends for recommendations. Identify a few dealerships in your region, not just one. That way you can compare prices and experiences.
11. Organize your paperwork.
When you’re ready to buy a car, you’ll need your driver’s license, payment method, and proof of insurance. If you’re financing through a dealership, you’ll also need proof of income and employment. Make sure these papers are in order and ready to go when you need them.
12. Call your insurance company,
When you buy your new car, your dealership often calls your insurance company during the purchase process. That doesn’t give you time to consider the rates for the make and model that you’ve chosen. Give your agent a call ahead of time. Get a cost quote. That way, there will be no surprises when you’re ready to buy.
Happy searching!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
No matter the situation, it’s stressful to be in a car crash. It’s even more nerve-wracking if the other driver refuses to stop. In a hit-and-run, you’re left all alone with all of the damage—and if you can’t find the other driver—the cost.
A hit-and-run is defined as a collision where at least one driver leaves the scene without sharing information or offering help. In most states, this is against the law, but it happens more often than you think- every 43 seconds someone is the victim of a hit-and-run. If there’s damage to your car, a hit-and-run could be a misdemeanor but if there’s also injury, it could be a felony.
So what do you do if a hit-and-run happens to you?
Step #1: Safety comes first. Check for injuries and that you’re in a safe location.
If you’re hurt and need immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1. If your car is in a dangerous location, and could be hit again, move it out of harm’s way.
Step #2: Look for a witness.
Look for a witness. If witnesses are nearby, ask if they’d make a statement. Take their contact information to share with police. (This is good advice for any type of accident.)
Step #3: Write down as much information as you can. Take photos.
Take a moment and write down what you remember about the accident, including the most important thing—the license plate number if you saw it. That will help the police to locate the vehicle. Also include information about the other car, such as the vehicle’s make and model, color, and direction of travel. If you saw who was driving, include a description of that person. Then, take photos of the damage to your car and the place where the accident occurred.
Step #4: Stay where you are and call the police.
In some states, it’s legally required to call the police. You’ll want to do so even if it’s not and even if the damage wasn’t serious. The police need to get out there immediately to make a report from the scene of the accident so that they can help to track down the other driver. In addition, your insurance provider will likely ask for a copy of the police report. Police reports document any physical evidence such as tire marks as well as any witness statements.
Let your insurer know about the accident and file a claim. Calling your insurance company will allow you to find out coverages available, limits, and deductibles. If you don’t have a body shop, they can often refer you to one in your area.At California Casualty, we call these “GRN’s” – Guaranteed Repair Network. These approved independent facilities meet the company’s strict customer service and quality standards. Your insurer will let you know about the repair process and will share information on whether your policy covers a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
If your car is damaged to the point where it cannot be driven, have it towed to your body shop.
Know your towing limits. Some coverage will take your car to the nearest place of repair. You may have to pay out-of-pocket if you to tow your car further. Finally, before any work can be done to repair your car, you will want to verify the process with your insurance company.
Who pays for repairs from a hit-and-run?
If you’re able to locate the other driver and he/she is insured, you will be able to file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. If that’s not the case, you have a couple of options. These vary by state and are also determined by how your insurance company handles hit-and-run accidents.
Collision Coverage
Your collision insurance kicks in if you don’t have underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage. If your car is totaled, collision coverage offers either “actual cash value” for your vehicle or the amount necessary to repair or replace the vehicle with another of similar kind and quality—subject to the deductible. There are certain cases where the deductible could be waived; check with your insurer. Collision applies both to accidents with other drivers and collisions with objects such as a fence or mailbox. It also covers vehicle rollovers. Unlike liability insurance, collision coverage is not usually required—unless you’re leasing a car or paying off a loan on a vehicle. However, it may be good to have, especially in the event of a hit-and-run.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage
One reason that a driver might run from the scene of an accident is if he or she does not have car insurance. If that’s the case, even if the police identify the driver, you cannot file a claim with his/her insurance company. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage, you can use that to pay for repairs. These are optional coverages in the majority of states. In some states, you are not allowed to carry collision and UMPD at the same time. Also, sometimes UMPD has a policy maximum, or cap on the amount it will pay. If you have UMPD/UIMPD, and it isn’t enough to cover the total cost of your car, your own collision coverage will help.
Having the right coverage is important for protecting your vehicle and keeping you from having to pay thousands in the event of an accident that is not your fault. Schedule an annual review with your insurer to make sure you are fully protected. Then, stay on top of your coverage by managing your account online.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Keep yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road safe in these four common high-pressure situations when you need to pull over on the side of the road.
Pulling over on a highway
Tip #1: If you need to pull over, do not panic or make sudden moves.This could cause you to make rash decisions. Check your surroundings and know the positions of the other vehicles on the road. This will help ensure that you don’t cut them off.
Tip #2: Don’t go left.The left side of a highway usually has less space. If there’s no barrier, it also might put you close to oncoming traffic. Put on your right turn signal. Start moving to the right as soon as you can do so safely.
Tip #3: Look for a wide shoulder.Avoid construction zones and places that are overgrown with trees. The ideal spot has a wide shoulder next to flat grass to allow your vehicle as much distance from the highway as possible.
Tip #4: Be aware of road conditions.Weather can make the roads slippery, such as black ice which can cause dangerous conditions. As you’re traveling right, adjust your speed accordingly. Be aware of any debris.
Tip #5: Activate your hazard lights so other vehicles are aware you are there.This is especially important in the dusk or dark. Do not exit your vehicle. You are much safer inside your car. However, if you must get out, stay on the side opposite to the highway, and never turn your back on traffic. Follow steps, if needed, in the next section on roadside assistance.
Tip #6: Give yourself ample time and space getting back onto the highway.Getting up to highway speed takes time. Turn off your hazards and put on your turn signal. Start to accelerate in the shoulder lane. When you are up to speed, safely merge back into traffic.
Roadside emergencies
Tip #1: Recognize there is a problem.You might notice that your car is in trouble due to noises, smells, or lights on the dashboard. Put on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are having an issue. Be aware of other cars around you as you look for a safe place to pull over.
Tip #2: Find a safe place to stop. Avoid stopping at a corner or the bottom of a hill where your car might surprise other drivers without enough room for them to slow or stop. If you can make it to a freeway exit, a rest stop, or a parking lot, do so. If not, a wide shoulder on the side of the road will work. Try to stop under a street light if possible.
Tip #3: Mark your spot.Don’t exit your car until it’s safe to do so. If you’re on a busy road, get out the passenger side and stay away from traffic. Set up emergency flares or fluorescent cones that warn other drivers you are there. Then return to your vehicle.
Tip #4: Call for roadside assistance if you need it.You may have roadside assistance through your insurer, but if you don’t, you can call a local towing service. There also are some apps that will connect you with service providers, such as HONK and Urgent.ly. Check with your local municipality as well. The state of California offers a free Freeway Service Patrol program to help clear the roads from broken down vehicles.
Tip #5: If you can, take care of simple repairs. You may be able to fix your flat tire or jumpstart your car.
Tip #6: Be careful of anyone who stops to help. Use your best judgment. Some people who offer to help may wish to cause harm. Err on the safe side and lower your window only enough to talk. Let the good Samaritan know that professional assistance is on its way.
Police stops
Tip #1: As soon as you hear the siren or see the flashing lights, put on your hazards.This lets the police officers know that you saw them and that you’re slowing down.
Tip #2: Search for a place to pull over that’s large enough for two cars.Most officers will permit you to go a short distance to a driveway, business parking lot, or gas station. If the car is unmarked, make sure you are in a safe place, such as in a well-lit area with people around or near an open business.
Tip #3: Turn off the ignition and wait. It may take several minutes for the officer to exit the car. He or she may be getting information about your car. Be patient and wait. Do not get out of your car.
Tip #4: If it’s a marked vehicle, roll down your window.If it’s an unmarked car, wait until the police officer approaches and asks for credentials before you roll down your window.
Tip #5: Be calm when you talk with the officer.The officer will most likely ask you for your license, registration, and insurance card. Let them know if you do not have one of the required documents.
Tip #6: If you get a ticket or citation, do not argue. Be respectful. Thank the officer if you get a verbal warning. After the officer has returned to his or her patrol car, pull out safely into traffic
Tip #1: Listen for a siren. A police, ambulance, or fire truck siren can be heard for a good distance. If you think you hear a siren, shut off your radio or music.Try to determine the direction where it is coming from. Look for flashing lights.
Tip #2: Put on your right turn signal and slow down. Continue listening for the siren and looking for lights. Identify a place where you can safely pull over to the right of the road.
Tip #3: Check your mirrors and make sure the way is clear.Pullover and park your car. You can leave the engine running as you shouldn’t be there for long.
Tip #4: Watch for the emergency vehicle and wait until it has passed.When you do pull out, you will want to stay at least 500 feet behind it.
Tip #5: Check your mirrors, put on your turn signal and carefully pull back into traffic.You may need to wait your turn, as other drivers will be doing the same thing.
Drive safe.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com
When it comes to sharing the road with others, let’s face it, we don’t always know what (or whatnot) to do. Ask anyone who has ever been behind a slow-moving vehicle or who has tried to pass an 18-wheeler…
Here’s a quick guide on the rules of the road as they pertain to sharing it with trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles, slow-moving vehicles, and pedestrians—plus a final word on the importance of moving over for emergency vehicles.
Trucks
A big rig weighs considerably more than the average car, and could be as much as 20-30 times heavier, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Their significant size and weight affect how quickly they can stop, go, and maneuver with lane changes and turns. Despite mirrors and a bird’s eye view, trucks also have large blind spots. And if your car is in one, the trucker likely has no idea you’re there.
Don’t cut off a truck by driving into the empty space just in front of them. While it takes a normal passenger car traveling at 65 mph about 300 feet to stop, it takes double that distance for a fully loaded commercial truck at the same speed. If you’re too close, the truck may not be able to slow down and avoid a collision.
Do not try to get past a truck to reach an exit or turn. Slow down and stay behind.
Know the locations of a truck’s blind spots and avoidthem. These are typically directly in front, directly behind, and along the sides, but especially the right side. The general rule is that if you cannot see the truck driver’s reflection in his or her side mirror, most likely he can’t see you.
The longer the vehicle, the greater the turning path will be. Big rig drivers often swing wide to make a turn. That means swinging left just before turning right. Watch the trucker’s turn signals and expect the driver to swing the other way. Importantly, do not pass a truck while turning or you might find yourself in its path.
Always pass a truck on the left side. Once you pass, do not linger. Move out ahead so the truck knows you are there.
Do not tailgate. You may not have enough time to stop if the truck in front of you stops quickly.
Buses
Buses face many of the same stopping and maneuverability issues that trucks do. The driver has the added pressure of being responsible for a busload of people—and sometimes children. With constant stops, and people getting on and off, there’s even more to consider when driving near a bus.
School buses have warning lights. A flashing yellow means slow down; a flashing red means stop. Stop no matter where your vehicle is, including if it is alongside the bus.
Remember that it is illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children.
Expect that public buses also will stop frequently. Maintain a safe distance behind them.
Large vehicles like buses have a higher center of gravity and must travel more slowly around curves and on-ramps. If you’re behind them, adjust your speed. Do not cut them off.
Remember that buses have large blind spots too, similar to trucks. They are usually immediately behind the side flat mirrors and behind the rear bumper. Try to stay visible and avoid those areas.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles are smaller than cars and significantly smaller than trucks and buses. So, it’s easy to see how they could almost “disappear” in your blind spots. Motorcycles can come up quickly without you realizing they’re there. That’s why it’s always good to be extra observant and know every vehicle sharing the road with you.
Do a visual check and use your mirrors when you change lanes, enter a major road or make a turn.
Allow motorcycles to have the width of the full lane width when possible.
Never try to pass a motorcycle that is sharing the same lane as you. Move to one side to give them the room to pass.
Road conditions can cause motorcycles to change speed or direction suddenly. These include wet slippery surfaces, gravel, and potholes. Anticipate this and be ready to adjust your speed and lane accordingly.
When you park your car, look for motorcycles before opening your car door.
Bicycles
Bicycles have the right to be on the road with other vehicles, providing that they are following the rules. This includes proper lighting and reflectors at night, riding in the direction of traffic, signaling when changing lanes, and staying as near to the right curb as possible. In some cases, bicyclists may have a dedicated bike lane.
Be aware that bicyclists may be permitted to ride on certain sections ofhighways where there is no alternate route and where bicycling is not prohibited by a sign.
As with cars, bikes are required to signal turns. A left turn is the left arm extended to the side. A right turn is the left arm bent at a 90-degree angle with the hand at the top. The stop signal is the same with the hand at the bottom. Learn the hand signals so you know what the cyclist is communicating.
Remember that your car weighs about 20 tons and a bike can weigh 20 lbs. or even less. Your car can do severe damage to a bicyclist and bike.
Some states have laws about the amount of space you must give bicyclists. The general rule is to give them about 3 feet of clearance.
After you park, look before you open your car door. There might be a bike coming.
Slow-Moving Vehicles
It can be frustrating to be stuck behind farm tractors, animal-drawn carts, or road maintenance trucks. These slow-moving vehicles typically will display a reflective orange triangle so you are aware of their speed as you approach them.
Slow down. Reduce your speed before you reach the slow-moving vehicle.
Don’t sound your horn. You could scare a horse, and sounding a horn will not help a slow-moving vehicle move any faster.
Be aware that animal-powered vehicles could make sudden movements.
If there is enough room to pass them, do so carefully on the left.
Pedestrians
Vehicles commonly share the road with pedestrians when they are crossing the street. Typically, this would be at a crosswalk. Check your local laws. In some cases, pedestrians do not always have the right of way. However, drivers do have a responsibility to be aware of people walking so they do not hit them.
Stop at all crosswalks where pedestrians are waiting.
Make sure your car is within 5 feet of the crosswalk. This helps blind pedestrians sense the presence of your vehicle.
Do not turn before looking for pedestrians.
Use extra caution in low visibility situations such as dusk, nighttime, or in bad weather. There may be a pedestrian whom you do not see.
Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. They could be stopping for someone.
Leave room. Consider a vehicle emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Emergency Vehicles
Police cars, fire engines, and ambulances need to get to the places where they can provide help to people in need. When you see flashing lights or hear sirens, that’s your cue to pull over to the side of the road. You can help emergency vehicles by giving them a clear path to their destination.
Following these rules for sharing the road will help keep you safe. Having the right auto insurance policy will provide peace of mind should you need that coverage. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com
As parents, we do more than just drive our kids around. Our cars are on-the-go eateries, curbside retreats, entertainment stations, and sometimes even offices. Finding the perfect vehicle that fits all of the needs of your family is so important.
That’s why we’ve tracked down this year’s most popular cars for moms and dads. Check them out, all listed here in alphabetical order.
2022 Ford Expedition (Large SUV)
Starting at $51,000
If you can afford the price tag, the Ford Expedition is highly ranked by Edmunds for its space and power. You can fit up to 8 with ample room for your gear. With the premium package, you get a massive 15.5-inch high-definition touch display and the option for massaging front seats! The rear-seat entertainment systems let kids stream videos and play games on Amazon Fire TV.
There also are power-folding running boards which serve as a step-stool for kids.
2022 Honda Odyssey (Minivan)
Starting at $33,040
The Odyssey has been the top pick in past years for Kelley Blue Book’s “Minivan Best Buy” and a top safety pick for 2021-22 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.It seats up to 8, including 5 car seats. The third row splits and folds with plenty of room for a stroller. The Cabin Watch feature lets you keep tabs on the kids in the back and a Cabin Talk option lets you chat with passengers through the speakers, including through DVD headphones. There’s a wireless charging pad in the front seat and front and rear USB ports. (Unfortunately, the popular vacuum cleaner is no longer included, as that company went out of business during the pandemic.)
2022 Hyundai Palisade (Midsize SUV)
Starting at $34,375
The Hyundai Palisade was a top safety pick in 2021 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It’s also one of Car and Driver’s favorite three-row family SUVs. There’s room for up to 8 passengers, and the second seat has a one-touch button that moves it forward to easily get to the back row. There are up to 7 USB ports and the ability to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. There’s also a touchscreen infotainment display. With seats folded down, there’s plenty of cargo room. Testers fit 33 carry-on suitcases!
2022 Kia Carnival (Minivan)
Starting at $33,555
The Kia Carnival is a minivan that looks like an SUV. They call it an MPV—multi-purpose vehicle. It seats up to 8 with plenty of legroom. Parents will love the optional in-cabin camera system with a zoom function and night vision that allows you to keep an eye on the backseat day or night. A VIP lounge option offers second-row captain’s chairs with kick-out leg rests. The third row can fold flat to the floor for extra storage. The vehicle’s Safe Exit Assist warns passengers not to exit if it’s unsafe. The car also texts you if movement is detected in your car 24 hours after you’ve exited, in case you’ve forgotten a child or a pet in the car.
2022 Kia Telluride (SUV)
Starting at $34,345
The Kia Telluride ranks in Car and Driver’s Top 10 Best Cars and Trucks for 2022 for its combination of comfort, safety, and affordability. It has luxury features like a 12-way power driver’s seat, a 10.3-inch touchscreen, and robust infotainment system, and heated and ventilated rear seats. Yet it will tug a 5,000-pound trailer with ease. Its quiet mode shuts off rear speakers and lowers the volume in front for nappers. There’s room for 8 unless you choose the option for second-row captain’s chairs, and then you’ve got 7.
2022 Subaru Forester (Small SUV)
Starting at $26,320
With safety and driver-assist features as standard, it’s no wonder that the Forester was a top safety pick for 2021 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. There’s roomy seating for 5, and the Forester scores well on fuel economy (26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway). There’s a touchscreen infotainment system and up to four USB ports, including two for the backseat passengers.
2022 Toyota Highlander (Midsize SUV)
Starting at $36,420
Available as a hybrid, this popular family vehicle is a top safety pick for 2021-22 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It seats 8, with options for heated seats in the front and second rows. Infotainment and driver assistance features come standard. Choose a higher trim level and you’ll get a 12.3-inch display.Fuel economy is good, with up to 29 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
2022 Toyota Sienna (Hybrid Minivan)
Starting at $36,000
Kelley Blue Book named the Toyota Sienna the best buy of 2022. As a hybrid, it delivers fuel economy – 36 mpg on the highway. It also is a top safety pick for 2021-22 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Three rows of seats are fully equipped with headphone jacks, charge ports, and the ability to recline back. Stow the third row for extra cargo space. The 9-inch infotainment system and a Wi-Fi hot spot makes it easy to connect.
2022 Volvo XC90 (Midsize SUV)
Starting at $51,995
Volvo is known for safety so it’s no surprise that the XC90 is a top safety pick for 2021-22 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. If you can get past the price tag, it also has some nice features. Navigation is standard. You can choose a Climate Control package with a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. The third row is not roomy enough for adults but works for kids. You can get this vehicle as a plug-in hybrid too.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas (SUV)
Starting at $35,095
With its large cargo capacity and comfortable three-row seating, the Atlas is made for family transport. Families will enjoy the multiple storage nooks and plenty of cupholders, as well as USB ports, including in the back seat. Testers fit an impressive 38 carry-on suitcases with the seats folded down, and four could fit behind the third row with the seats up.
Of course, you don’t have to buy a brand-new car. There are a lot of good options for used cars, too. Whatever you drive, make sure to protect your car with the right auto insurance.
For parents of teens, you can also check out the most popular vehicles for teenagers here!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
