The car manufacturing industry has developed in leaps and bounds. Today, auto manufacturers have included new technology and innovative features to enhance your safety while driving on the road.
According to a recent survey, older drivers are appreciative of these technologically advanced safety features. However, few are willing to go so far as to want a self-driving car. According to Munich Re, an reinsurance company who surveyed older Americans for their views, two-thirds of drivers age 65 and older want to purchase a vehicle with added safety features. However, half indicated they would be uncomfortable purchasing or riding in a fully autonomous car.
An overview of newer-model safety features
While most self-driving cars are still a few years off, it is good news that people are embracing added safety technology. Such added features, available in most newer model vehicles, include:
- Lane departure warning systems. These systems include cameras and sensors that determine the relative position of your vehicle in the lane. If you leave your lane, a light may flash, a beep may sound, or the steering wheel will vibrate to alert you. This feature helps to avoid head-on collisions or other catastrophes.
- Rearview camera. Most cars come with mounted rearview cameras that enable the driver to see what is behind them. The images are transmitted to a screen on the dashboard or the rearview mirror of the vehicle. You can also get a car with reverse backup sensors that will alert you in case you are about to collide with something when you reverse.
- Automatic braking. The forward collision avoidance system works with automatic braking to alert the driver when they are about to run into something. The automatic braking system will slow down the vehicle to prevent a collision or reduce the impact of any collision that may occur. Although this system is available only in expensive cars, it is expected to become a standard feature in the next few years.
- Parking assist. Side view assist will alert a driver when there is a car in their blind spot. Sensors placed on the rear bumper give an alert either through a light or a beep when you engage a turn signal. The parking assist is a convenient feature for drivers who have difficulty with parallel parking. This safety feature can detect the size of the parking space and guide you on how to park safely.
- Electronic stability control. This innovative technology allows drivers to apply brakes on specific wheels when the vehicle swerves. This can help you to regain control of the vehicle.
No vehicle is accident-proof
Even with these features, all drivers have a responsibility to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Although they can reduce accidents, auto safety features cannot prevent accidents caused by a drunk, reckless or distracted driver.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact an experienced personal injury law firm familiar with auto accident cases.