Drop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!

Think the back seat is the safest spot in a crash? New IIHS testing challenges that idea, and we examine why rear-seat protection in many newer vehicles still lags behind that of the front. We highlight which models earned top marks, why small and midsize SUVs exceeded expectations, and why minivans—despite their family-friendly image—didn't make the cut. You’ll get straightforward, jargon-free insights on how modern restraint systems work, what to look for when buying, and the one habit that still boosts every safety feature’s effectiveness.

We also examine how Gen Z is changing the way people get into the driver’s seat. With high car prices, expensive insurance, and social life shifting online, many teens delay getting their licenses and face real anxiety when they finally do. We share data on teen crash risks, why summer driving is particularly dangerous, and how modern driver training—using GPS-tracked vehicles, video coaching, and structured practice—can develop calm, capable drivers who pass sooner and drive more safely.

Far from the coasts, rivers are becoming the new frontline for extreme weather. NOAA’s expanded flood inundation tool now offers near real-time, street-level maps for most of the U.S. population, helping forecasters and first responders evacuate the right neighborhoods before floodwaters rise. We discuss what this means for inland states, flash floods in the Southwest, insurance costs, and smarter, more resilient planning.

And since daily habits matter, we take a close look at “comfort stop” braking, which promises fewer coffee spills by reducing vehicle pitch at low speeds. It sounds appealing—until you consider trade-offs, stopping distances, and the realities of software-controlled brakes. We ask the tough questions about safety, legality, redundancy, and how to design features that never compromise emergency performance.

Subscribe for more insights on mobility, tech, safety, and climate resilience. If this episode changed how you think about your next car or your evacuation plan—share it with a friend and leave a review to help others discover the show.

Support the show

Be sure to tell your friends to tune in to The TechMobility Podcast!