Car Tech: Car Safety Technologies You Should Know

Technology has influenced most industries in our economy, and car tech is no different. Cars have come a long way over the years, in terms of incorporating technological advancements into how the public drives, maintains and utilize vehicles.

From automatic locks, to keyless ignitions, car tech has always played an integral role in the construction of a vehicle. Many of the advancements made are cosmetic in nature; automatic start, handsfree trunk opening, etc. That said, several have pushed the level of safety while driving to new heights. Although these technological advancements tend to be costly, essentially adding to the gradual increase in average repair costs for cars, they do serve concrete purposes and ultimately help drivers stay safe while on the road.

Car Tech You Should Know

Before jumping into the latest wave of technological advances, let’s take a look at a few that were included in the last one.

1. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

This computerized technology reduces the loss of traction while driving through automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels to help the driver steer the car to where they want to go. ESC was made mandatory in all new vehicles in 2012.

2. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Believe it or not, ABS did not truly reach mainstream production whereby it was found in every car until the mid-1990’s; and didn’t become required until 2012, alongside ESC. Prior to then, drivers would have to become savants at pumping the breaks to apply an adequate amount of pressure to their tires, or have their tires lock up due to too much pressure.

3. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Required in all new vehicles in 2007, TPMS makes sure all four of your wheels are inflated properly, so you can maximize traction and hopefully, never experience a blowout.

4. Airbags

Airbags have been around for quite a while. They were mandated back in 1998. However, nowadays, vehicles can have over six airbags in one vehicle. From head curtain airbags to the traditional driver side airbag, a car can be virtually padded with airbag insulation to absorb and ultimately, decrease the force a passenger endures when involved in an accident.

Car Tech for the Future

There is a new wave of technological advances that is building upon the changes listed above and are ushering vehicle safety into a new realm. Given the recent nature of these advancements, many have not yet been widely incorporated in the manufacturing of vehicles. As data continues to accumulate and each product proves its value, you can rest assure some, if not all of these products may be required in the future. If you find yourself shopping for a new vehicle, keep these safety gemstones in mind when comparing cars.

• Lane Departure Warning: Warning that alerts drivers when they are changing lanes.
• Lane-Keeping Assistant: Corrective steering employed by vehicles when crossing lane markings.
• Night Vision: Provides infrared images of what’s ahead when your headlights don’t extend far enough.
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Warning that triggers when there’s a vehicle in your blindspot; especially when the turn signal is initiated.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Vehicle automatically applies breaks to prevent collision.
• Lane-Centering Assist: Vehicle assisting steering to stay in between lanes.
• Active Parking Assist: Vehicle assists driver while parallel parking.
• Drowsiness Alert: Carsystem that gives a warning when it senses the driver is drowsy, or more specifically, driving outside of his/her normal driving pattern.
• 360^oCamera: Camera that provides a panoramic view of the outside of your vehicle.
• Autonomous Driving: Self-driving vehicle.

Driving inherently carries quite a bit of risk. Knowing that the auto market has continued to strive to mitigate this risk and make driving as safe as possible should provide a bit of comfort. As always, from your team here at EINSURACNCE, drive safely!

If you want to learn more regarding safety features that can save you money on car insurance, check here. Comparing car insurance quotes, remember to use our free online quote service.