Written by: Hannah Boothe
Cars have come a long way over the years. When the first car was built it was incredibly simple compared to today’s automobiles. There was a time when the car didn’t have the backup camera, automatic locks, heating or air conditioning, or even windshield wipers. However, all of these improvements have been made of the years to make driving a car more convenient, fun, and most importantly, safe.
Because of new technological developments, vehicles are becoming safer in many ways. They now have features like anti-lock brake systems, new and improved airbags, and an infrared deer detector for cars. Several car and truck models have these innovative safety features. Even though it’s still best to be a safe driver instead of relying fully on vehicle safety tools, these advancements in technology can provide us with more peace of mind whether we’re driving short distances or taking road trips. Here are some of the ways automobile technology can give you and your family more security.
Automatic Brakes
Standard auto brake systems come with sensors, radars, and camera hardware. These components work with a forward-collision warning system to make sure the brakes work quickly in potentially dangerous situations where the driver isn’t responding fast enough. Automatic brakes let the driver know when the brake system is working via a visual or audio alert. Collision detection is a newer vehicle feature and allows drivers to feel more comfortable on the road since it decreases the chance of accidents.
Adaptive Headlights
These headlights automatically become brighter or dimmer in adverse weather conditions to help you see the road and other vehicles. Adaptive headlights make it easier to see around curves and are ideal for drivers who have trouble seeing at night. Some automobile manufacturers have even programmed the headlights to turn on or intensify in brightness during fog or rain, and the high beams can adjust themselves when your car is attempting to pass another vehicle in the opposite lane.
Blind Spot Monitoring
Blind-spot monitoring technology is another technological feature that makes driving safer. The monitoring system is usually wired on the driver’s side at the back or on the side of the vehicle to constantly monitor all cars and trucks traveling next to the cabin. Some systems offer visual, spoken, or sound-based warnings to let you know when you’re driving in your blind spot so you can change lanes safely and avoid an accident.
Lane Detection
If you drive on busy streets and highways often, you may want to take advantage of lane detection. This technology involves sensors that pick up the movement of nearby cars and trucks to let you know when you’re veering into another lane. When your vehicle recognizes that you’ve accidentally changed lanes, you’ll get an audible or visual alert so you can adjust your vehicle and reduce the chances of a collision. If you have a car or truck with an advanced lane detection system, you can take advantage of course correction when you’re driving during an emergency.
Park Assist
Do you have a hard time parallel parking? Do you dislike reverse parking? If so, you can benefit from park assist. This feature makes parking easier by causing your car to stop near the parking spot you want through the use of cameras and radar. The car steers itself and you only need to change gears or brake until you’re safely parked. If your car’s sensor detects an item or person in your way, the vehicle will adjust to help you avoid obstacles.
Alertness Monitoring
Alertness monitoring is a valuable feature if you have to drive while tired or drowsy. Operating a vehicle when you’re not completely alert can be dangerous or fatal. If you’re driving while distracted or tired, your car will alert you if your driving patterns are unusual or unsafe. You’ll hear a beep or speech warning letting you know to straighten the car up. Advanced alertness monitoring systems will brake the vehicle as needed or gently swerve the car in the right direction.
It’s important to realize that even skilled drivers can benefit from these driving technologies, especially as these features become more advanced. Choosing vehicles with these technological features can keep you and your loved ones safer on the road.
