Tips for choosing a family-friendly car

You've agonised over the stroller, now it's time to figure out which car is going to fit you, your new baby, other children and stroller with ease, style and safety.

For many mums, safety is paramount when choosing a new family car. Knowing how well your car will protect you and your family in a crash is a really important consideration once you have baby on board. Whether you are buying a new or used car, you can compare the 'crashworthiness' ratings of different makes and models at www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au This website provides information for around 80 per cent of cars on Australian roads built after 1990. The site is updated as new safety data becomes available.

Choosing a child restraint
You might think you can protect your unrestrained baby in your arms but in a crash at 60 kilometres per hour research shows the child's weight can be increased up to 20 times, making holding onto baby impossible. And let's not even begin to think what would happen if the airbag was activated. For a simple guide to child restraints contact the Australian Transport Safety Bureau ph:1800 621 372 or take a look at this handy guide.

After you have chosen your car you will need to choose a suitable child restraint and make sure it fits in your new car. By law, every child restraint sold in Australia must adhere to strict safety regulations but it will be useless if it is not fitted correctly or worse, is not suitable for your new car.

Your baby must be properly restrained in a suitable car seat for the very first journey from the hospital so don't leave it till the last minute to get the restraint fitted. Authorised fitting stations can be found at many maternity hospitals or your local baby store will be able to direct you to a fitting station near you.

Choosing a 4WD
4WD vehicles spark plenty of safety debates but there is no denying their popularity as family transport. One of the big reasons 4WD's are so popular is that they are generally value for money, and most makes and models offer more space, versatility and features than a conventional sedan at the same price. Continued...