There is a rise in the number of car accidents around the world. With many causes, the most significant is the use of smartphones and modern technology while driving. But what can you do to help reduce the number of accidents? Do you have to enforce restrictions on using technology? Or should you increase your vigilance?
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Both ways can help you reduce the number of fatalities on the road. However, technology, too, can also safeguard you on the road. Modern vehicles come with an advanced safety system that can help protect you from potential accidents. Some of these advanced safety systems include;
Forward- Collision Warning (FCW)
A forward-collision warning system can help you monitor the speed of both your vehicle and that in front of you plus the distance in-between. If you get dangerously close to the car in front of you, the FCW system will warn you of an impending crash. According to the Institute Insurance for Highway Safety, an FCW system can reduce about 27 percent of rear-end crashes.
You should note that the system does not take control over your car when you almost get into a crash. It does not also prevent you from controlling the vehicle to stop the accident from happening. You have to take evasive action or apply brakes once the warning signal goes off.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
A lane departure warning system helps to inform you when you drift out of your lane without making a turn signal. The system uses cameras to detect lane markings on the road and the position of your car. You will receive an immediate warning when the signal detects you are about to leave your lane. It can be a haptic, visual, or audio signal.
You will only get the warning if you do not activate a turn signal when changing lanes. The system will help you avoid any unintentional accidents, and help you stay in your lane even when inattentive.
Automatic Emergency Braking Systems
This technology helps you to predict a forward crash before it happens. It gives you enough time to prevent it from happening. If the corrective measures you take are not sufficient to avoid a collision, the system may automatically apply emergency brakes. An automatic emergency braking system consists of a dynamic brake support and crash imminent braking. When you lightly use breaks to avoid a crash, the dynamic breaks system supplements your efforts and aids in preventing an accident. On the other hand, if you do not touch your brakes, the crash-imminent breaking will take action immediately as it attempts to slow down your vehicle or stop it before you crash.
Bluetooth Voice Control
Although Bluetooth is not a new feature, it is highly beneficial in preventing distracted driving. You can cause an accident effortlessly when you handle a mobile phone as you drive. In many states, it is illegal to text as you drive. You can consult an automobile accident attorney when you have a distracted driving charge. However, to be safe, you need to use a wireless connection to receive your calls. It would help if you had a Bluetooth capable car for that to happen.
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
It may be troubling when you want to back out of a parking space, and you do not have any clear view of approaching traffic. A rear cross-traffic alert helps you by monitoring any moving traffic behind you flowing from either left or right. It becomes active when you begin to reverse your car, giving you a visual or auditory warning when it senses an approaching vehicle.
It uses sensors that you can find on each side of the rear bumpers. The sensors use ultrasonic waves or radar to detect any movement at the back of the car, helping you to prevent any accidents from happening in time.
Adaptive Cruise control
Adaptive cruise control is an advanced form of cruise control that helps you to keep a safe space from the car in front of you by fine-tuning your speed spontaneously.
You have to set your preferred speed and identify the number of seconds you want to stay behind the car that is ahead of you. It is ideal for use in stop-and-go traffic. The car safety features listed above will help you avoid getting into accidents. However, it would help if you did more than rely on them. You need to exercise caution while driving and follow all the traffic rules. Avoid texting while driving or engaging in anything else that may take your focus away from the road. Do not drive while tired, and avoid changing lanes carelessly. Equip yourself with the above essential information before you get car insurance. It will be of big help in choosing the best coverage.