Crash avoidance technology allows cars to alert drivers to dangerous conditions on the road. This gives drivers a better chance to avoid an accident. If the driver doesn’t take proper action, the car itself may be able to take control and prevent a crash, depending on the type of technology it has.
While some types of crash avoidance technology, known as advanced driver assistance systems (ADA), allow the driver to take control of the vehicle in emergency situations, autonomous driving cars will be able to drive completely without the interaction of the driver. Will this technology make the roads a safer place, as intended? Or will they actually put drivers at greater risk of an accident?
Crash Avoidance Systems – What You Need to Know
Crash avoidance technology uses hazard alerts, as well as automatic braking and steering control, to help prevent an accident. The car has sensors on all sides that detect when the car is getting too close to an object. If the driver does not perform adequate evasive maneuvers, the car will automatically take over and avoid a crash.
There are several types of crash avoidance technology systems. These include:
- Forward collision warning
- Blind spot detection
- Automatic braking
- Back up parking assistance
- Adaptive headlights
- Lane departure warning and prevention
How Effective Are These Crash Avoidance Systems?
In a safety analysis study conducted by the Highway Loss Data Institute, three of the most common types of crash avoidance systems were examined. These included forward collision warning systems, adaptive headlights, and lane departure warning systems. Forward collision warning technology, which alerts the driver if the car is going dangerously fast toward an obstacle in the road, proved to be very effective in lowering the number of accidents. Some forward collision systems also have automatic brake functions that kick in if the driver does not respond in time.
Furthermore, adaptive headlights proved to be very safe and effective. Adaptive headlights move in the direction of the steering wheel to help drivers see behind curves at night, and vary with the car’s speed and angle of the turn. They reduced accident claims by about 10%.
Lane departure warning systems, which use sensors to help drivers stay within traffic lanes, were not as effective in reducing accident claims. In fact, these systems actually increased the number of claims overall. Lane departure warning systems use cameras to detect lane markings and alert the driver if the car starts to drift to one side. However, this technology is not always accurate, as lane markings can be difficult to see.
Crash Avoidance Technology & Driver Responsibility
While some crash avoidance technology improves the safety of drivers, other types may put them at greater risk. One reason for this is that the sensors could send too many warnings. Hyperactive sensors may give the driver a lot of unnecessary hazard alerts. This may cause the driver to ignore or tune out the warnings, making the system ineffective. Furthermore, the technology is not perfect. If it inaccurately senses a danger and takes automatic correction by steering or braking, it could actually cause an accident.
Even with crash avoidance systems, drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road. This means they must stay alert and aware of any hazardous road conditions to protect themselves and others while driving. Further research is needed to explore the benefits and risks of crash avoidance technology and self-driving cars.
Knowledgeable Car Accident Attorneys Serving Phoenix
If you have been injured in a car wreck, Alex & Associates can help. Our Phoenix car accident lawyers have years of experience. We will work hard to build your case and represent you to insurance companies as you seek justice.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.