7 Safety Features We’re Thankful For

Because we're not dummies behind the wheel.

This time of year invites us to slow down and appreciate the small things that make everyday life feel a little easier. And when it comes to driving, one of the biggest gifts we often overlook is just how safe modern cars have become. Today’s vehicles help us stay aware, avoid danger, and feel more in control — often without us even noticing.

But we also have reason to stay alert. Women are 73% more likely to be seriously injured in a head-on crash and 17% more likely to be killed than men — in part because crash-test dummies were never designed to reflect the female body. (Something that, thankfully, is finally starting to change.)

In our GoGoGirlGo survey, safety ranked as one of the top priorities for women when choosing a car, right alongside reliability and price. AAA finds the same: women are more likely than men to list safety as their top buying factor (AAA, 2022). It’s not surprising. Feeling protected on the road matters.

So this week, we’re giving thanks for the features that quietly look out for us every time we get behind the wheel.

Here are the safety features we’re thankful for.

Blind-Spot Monitoring

What it does: Uses radar sensors on your side mirrors to detect cars hiding in your blind spot, flashing a light or giving a gentle beep if you start to change lanes. Where you’ll find it: Standard on many midsize SUVs and sedans; optional on lower trims of compact cars.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

What it does: Detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes if you don’t react quickly enough.

Where you’ll find it: Standard on nearly all new vehicles sold in the U.S. as of 2023, thanks to agreements between automakers and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Lane-Keeping Assist

What it does: Uses cameras to detect lane markings and gently steers you back if you start to drift. Some systems just warn you; others give subtle steering input.

Where you’ll find it: Included in most “driver assistance” or “safety tech” packages, often standard on newer SUVs and EVs. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that over 80% of new vehicles now offer lane-keeping systems or adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

What it does: Maintains your chosen speed but automatically slows down or speeds up to keep a safe distance from the car ahead.

Where you’ll find it: Common on mid-range and premium models; becoming more available on compact cars, too. If you do a lot of highway driving, this one’s a game-changer.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)

What it does: When you’re backing out of a parking space, sensors scan for vehicles, bikes, or pedestrians approaching from either side and alert you before you move.

Where you’ll find it: Usually bundled with blind-spot monitoring. Not always standard — check the trim level.

360-Degree Camera (or Surround View System)

What it does: Combines images from multiple cameras around your car to create a bird’s-eye view on your screen.

Where you’ll find it: Standard on luxury vehicles; optional or available in higher trims on many SUVs and trucks.

Driver Attention Monitoring

What it does: Uses sensors and steering data to detect signs of drowsiness or distraction, then suggests a break (sometimes literally flashing a coffee-cup icon).

Where you’ll find it: Increasingly common on newer models across brands like Subaru, Hyundai, and Mazda.