There are a lot of decisions to make when it comes to a large purchase like a car. What brand and what color will you choose? How many people should it fit- will your family grow? You may know some of your preferences already. But before heading to the dealership, it’s important to understand what safety features would make a car right for you. Every vehicle comes with standards like seatbelts, but new technology is being created every day to help you avoid a visit to the car accident doctor. Below are just some of the features you may want to ask about before driving off the lot.
Side Airbags
Since 1998, all cars have been required to have front airbags, so you won’t need to worry about that. But many cars also have side airbags or side-curtain airbags, designed for extra protection in a collision from the side. Though this is common, you should always ask exactly what airbags are available. You may also hear about inflatable seatbelts, front-center airbags, and outside airbags designed to pop over the windshield if a pedestrian is hit. In you case you ever face a car accident so here is how you can take care of yourself.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Any model manufactured after 2012 is required to have ESC, but older vehicles may not be equipped. ESC helps keep your car on the road in instances where you lose control by detecting loss of traction or steering control. When this happens, the brakes can be automatically applied, and engine power may be reduced.
Back-Up Sensors and Cameras
Backing up a car can be one of the more difficult tasks when driving, as you have to take into account the direction you are going along with potential blind spots. Some cars have sensors that detect an object coming close to the car’s rear, but cameras are replacing this feature. The majority of cars are now made to include a back-up camera that turns on when a car is put in reverse, showing what is behind you and, in some cases, offering trajectory lines or distance estimates.
Forward-Collision Warning
A forward-collision warning system relies on cameras, radar, or lasers to detect when a driver is approaching a vehicle ahead too quickly, then issues a warning with sounds or vibrations. Some systems may even apply the brakes to prevent a crash. This is not widely available, but it can be effective and is something you may want to include in your new car’s make. Any car with a top safety rating will include forward-collision warning.
Voice Control
We all know by now that texting while driving is dangerous, but we do often rely on our phones in the car. Most cars now offer Bluetooth to connect your device to the speaker system, but ask if voice controls are available as well. This will let you issue commands without touching a device or a button, keeping your eyes on the road.
Lane Departure Warning
By monitoring lane markings, this feature uses cameras and lasers to warn you when your vehicle moves out of a lane without an active turn signal. Some systems may even slow or stop your car or steer it back when this occurs. This is definitely an upgrade for many vehicles, but it can be great to have.
Blind Spot Warning
Blind spots are one of the most persistent dangers in driving, especially on the highway. With radar and cameras, some vehicles can now monitor this blind spot and activate a warning light when something is present. Many will also make an audible sound when you turn on a blinker if your blind spot is occupied. This is another upgraded feature that is slowly becoming more popular.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Once you turn on cruise control, the adaptive version will scan the road ahead and adjust your speed automatically if it detects a slower-moving object in front of you. Once it detects the road is clear, it will return to your original speed. Luxury vehicles commonly have this, though some other manufacturers are now offering it.
Adaptive Headlights
This new technology allows your headlights to shift based on the position of your steering wheel, always lighting the road ahead of you as you move. This may not be as important in an urban environment with proper street lighting, but those that are in more rural regions or often drive where there is wildlife will appreciate this feature.
Alertness Monitoring
Driving while tired is a huge risk and a major cause of accidents. While you should always be responsible, some systems detect erratic driving like drifting or sudden decelerations and give multiple cues to wake up the driver. This could be handy if you often drive at night.