Editor’s Note: Our talk of cars tends to be related to a wide variety of topics like speed, looks, comfort and fuel mileage. Yet often overlooked — both by enthusiasts and everyday drivers — is one of the most important factors: safety. This week, we’re taking a deeper look at how modern vehicles are keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road with our Automotive Safety Issue.
Your baby has arrived. What a glorious day. And after being coddled at the hospital, you’re kicked out of the nest like a baby bird being taught how to fly. The days-old human in your hands makes the world bigger and scarier: a sneezing stranger becomes a fount of disease, an approaching siren has you listening for gunfire, and fellow commuters become demolition derby opponents. To get your baby home safely, you must battle blind spot mergers, yellow light runners, and impatient tailgaters.
Amid this gauntlet, hopefully no one neglected to buy a car seat for the newborn.
Car seats originally looked more like lawn chairs, meant to keep children in place rather than protect them from crashes. Today’s car seats, however, must meet strict standards set by the NHTSA, including a new side impact protection test. These five options come in different prices and styles, but all pass these standards with flying colors; they’ll let you breathe a bit easier knowing your precious cargo is as safe as can be. The rest is up to the driver.
BRITAX BOB B-SAFE
Best Baby-on-a-Budget Option: The B-Safe features energy-absorbing foam for the sides of the headrest, LATCH connectors with a one-button easy release, an ergonomic carry handle and a five-point harness for less than $200. If you own a pre-2002 car without LATCH anchors, the B-Safe’s built-in lock-offs use the seat belt to secure the base. The BOB version offers colors that coordinate with the BOB jogging stroller; add the adapters ($40), and it becomes a full travel system, eliminating the need for a second stroller.
