New drivers are best suited to vehicles that are not too small, not too big, not too powerful and fairly simple to navigate, according to the "2020 Best Cars for Teens" report produced by U.S. News and World Report. Researchers also found that when teen drivers have cars or trucks with space for more than a few passengers, they're more likely to experience distractions that could result in an accident. It follows that when new drivers are lucky enough to drive brand new cars, it behooves them to secure a vehicle with the following safety features: |

• Forward collision warning;
• Automatic emergency braking;
• Lane department warning; and
• Lane-keeping assist.

Safety should remain top of mind when selecting a vehicle for a teenager or any other new driver. Consider that automobile accidents are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S., according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Here are three more driving safety reminders for teen drivers from the NHTSA: |

1. Talk to teens about the dangers of drug and alcohol use, especially for drivers. Remind them that it is illegal to drink under the age of 21, and it is illegal — and deadly — to drink and drive. If a driver is under 21, his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) should always be at .00, not just under .08, which is the legal limit for drivers over age 21.
2. Experienced drivers should be good role models. Remember that youngsters look up to you as a driver, so practice safe driving yourself. Set aside time to take your teen on practice driving sessions. It can be a great way to spend time together and to allow your teen to improve some basic driving skills. A teen's learning starts at home.
3. Don't rely solely on a driver's education class to teach teens or other new drivers how to drive. Driver's education should be a starting point. Learning and practicing your state's graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws is a great next step.

The slideshow above illustrates the best new cars for teens in 2020, according to U.S. News & World Report. Keep reading... |

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