The latest vehicles come with a range of standard safety features that make driving safer for teenagers behind the wheel.

Some of these features include blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning.

Jackie Ferrara's son, Dylan, is learning to drive, and she feels that choosing the right car is key to his safety.

Ferrara said, "Safety features like automatic braking systems and blind spot detectors are there to ensure that he is not only safe but also everyone on the roads."

Dylan Ferrara said he looks forward to sitting in the driver's seat.

He said, "A good car for me would be something reliable, with safety features and comfortable driving."

According to Consumer Reports (CR), teenagers are among the riskiest drivers, with crash rates four times that of drivers aged 20 and older.

Jennifer Stockburger, a car expert at Consumer Reports (CR), said, "Because young drivers are at a high risk, buy a car that maximizes safety within your budget."

Many of the latest safety options have been available for five years or more, so even if you buy a used car, you're likely to get some features.

CR and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have identified used cars priced around $20,000 that are considered safe and reliable, including the 2021 or newer Honda Civic sedan or hatchback, the 2017 or newer Toyota Corolla, and the 2020 or newer Hyundai Tucson. Another safe and reliable option for teenagers is the 2021-22 Mazda 3.

Stockburger said, "Fortunately, cars continue to become safer, and prices have stabilized in the new and used market. So we've been able to guide families to better options this year."

Researchers say that proven safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot detection are worth considering.

Stockburger said, "The first car for a teenage driver should be balanced, not too small, not too big, and definitely not too fast."

Just as Jackie Ferrara did with her son, parents should also talk to their teens about road safety before they sit behind the wheel.

Jackie Ferrara said, "Telling him to make sure we focus on the road, and limit distractions like music and the number of people in the car."

Keep in mind that adding a young driver to your car insurance will increase your premiums, so if you're buying a car, check with your insurance company first because different cars come at different rates.