Car safety has always been an important issue for drivers. Crash test ratings have become a major selling point as well as safety features like side impact crunch zones and side airbags. While driving can still be a very dangerous thing to do, it may be safer then you realize.

Recently one study revealed that 2010 had the lowest traffic fatality rate in the history of recorded fatality rates. To put the numbers in perspective, more people died of poisoning then the from auto crashes. Yep, you read it right, 41,000 people were poisoned while 37,261 were killed in car wrecks. In fact, more people also died of the flu and pneumonia as well. That being said, it is important for you to be aware of what different kind of safety features are available and how they function. Here are some options.

Anti-Lock Breaks – ABS is a function that keeps a car\’s wheels from locking up during a panic break. In short, the theory is that if the wheels lock, you start to skid and lose control. ABS helps keep the wheels from locking, thus allowing to you control your car as you hit the breaks. This comes standard for four wheels on most new cars. Trucks and SUV\’s usually have the option for two or four wheel.

Electronic Stability Control – A fairly new convention not found on older models. ESC was created to help drivers keep control of their vehicles during intense maneuvers and spin outs. The technology monitors tires speeds and applies braking force to one or more tires as needed. ESC has been incredibly helpful in lowering the number of traffic fatalities and is standard on most new cars. That being said, many new trucks still lack ESC.

Air Bags – No, this term does not apply to your mother-in-law or politicians. Front air bags have been around for some time. Now side air bags are making an appearance in many new car models as well. They protect from side impacts and either deploy downward from the roof or up and out from the seat back. The latter have proven effective in protecting the neck and back. There are also roll over air bags, that deploy when sensor detect a roll over. They deploy from the roof as well and remain open longer than normal air bags.

By law, all cars made after 2006 have advanced air bag systems. These systems are designed to function in such a way that balances the passenger protection with the force the bad is deployed at. It is particularly useful in situations where small adults or children may be sitting in a seat.

Good, defensive -driving will always be the safest way to go, but it is good to know driving is getting safer than ever. Look for these features when buying a new or used car.