Motorists have been urged to ensure their next car is fitted with a stability control system, by the car-safety organisation Euro NCAP.

Available from most manufacturers, these systems reduce the chances of being involved in an accident by helping drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. If a driver has misjudged a corner or suddenly swerves to avoid an obstacle, stability control can help the driver to avoid a skid.

Studies have shown that cars fitted with stability control are less involved in certain types of accidents than those without. In Sweden, an overall reduction of 22% has been detected, rising to 32% just in wet conditions, and a study in Japan has suggested a decrease in accident involvement of 30 to 35%. American and German studies have shown similar positive results.

Further information on stability control systems and advice to motorists on what to consider when purchasing a new car, along with star ratings for all the latest cars on sale across Europe can be found on the Euro NCAP website www.euroncap.com.