Final answer:
The reason for Lois's mother's refusal to ride in the new Cadillac is not explicitly stated in the text. However, we can infer that financial concerns or personal preference might be more logical reasons for her refusal, based on the societal context and indications that car preference can vary widely among individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely reason that Lois's mother refuses to ride in the new Cadillac, based on the information we have, is not clearly given in the text provided. However, we can infer that certain options are less likely based on the information. For instance, we can rule out safety concerns as the passage indicates nothing about car safety, which means we can eliminate this option. Environmental concerns are mentioned in general, but not specifically linked to Lois's mother's decision not to ride in the Cadillac. Financial concerns and personal preference are options that could be more logical, as owning an expensive new car like a Cadillac may not align with a desire for a more economical or personally preferred option.
If we consider the additional context where car ownership is a necessity in suburbia, it could be surmised that Lois's mother may have a practical reason, potentially related to financial concerns or personal preference, for not wanting to ride in the new Cadillac. For example, she might prefer a more cost-effective or a different style of vehicle that better suits the family's needs. The passage about the man driving a hearse suggests that reactions to different types of cars vary widely, therefore supporting the notion that personal preference could play a significant role in her decision.