High-Tech Auto Safety Features That Could Save Your Life

August 17, 2016

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says 94 percent of all auto accidents are caused by human error. Human error is entirely preventable, but it still happens all the time. But recent innovations in vehicle technology indicate big changes for the future of driving. Besides the ongoing excitement over fully autonomous, self-driving cars, there are much more basic safety technologies that are already available in many new vehicles:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: This system works with technology that senses the potential of a collision ahead of you. When appropriate, the system will engage and begin applying the brakes. The outcome is that you can avoid a crash because the systems knows what is happening in front of you.
• Forward Collision Warning: This technology alerts you to an imminent wreck in front of you. When warned, you can apply the brakes or steer out of the way to avoid the crash.
• Lane Departure Warning: It’s easy to drift out of your lane, particularly if you’re drowsy or distracted. Lane departure technology uses cameras to track when your vehicle is straying from the lane markings. As you begin to drift, you will be alerted by the system so you can correct your position within the lane.
• Rearview Video: Most people are familiar with backup cameras. Perhaps your vehicle has one. By enabling you to see behind the vehicle, you can avoid reversing into an object or pedestrian.

These modern features are available today. You can ask about them when you’re shopping for a car. Technologies like these – while they cannot eliminate the possibility of an accident – can significantly reduce the risk and keep drivers across Louisville and the rest of the USA safer.