Car Safety Features You Shouldn’t Overlook

June 8th, 2023 by
Key Takeaways

● Car safety features have evolved, providing enhanced protection for drivers and passengers.
● Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) offer a range of features to prevent accidents and improve the driving experience.
● Tire pressure monitoring systems can help prevent accidents caused by tire-related issues.
● Collision warning systems are an essential addition to ensure timely reactions to potential hazards.
● Adaptive cruise control provides a comfortable driving experience while maintaining safe distances from other vehicles.
● Blind spot detection systems help drivers change lanes safely, reducing the risk of accidents.
● Rearview cameras and parking sensors provide increased visibility and prevent collisions while parking.

Car safety has come a long way since the introduction of seat belts and airbags. Technological advancements have made it possible for vehicles to offer a plethora of safety features designed to keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe on the road.

In this article, we will discuss the car safety features you shouldn’t overlook when purchasing a new vehicle, as these essential additions can save lives and prevent accidents. 

 
Car Safety Features You Shouldn't Overlook

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

One of the most significant advancements in car safety is the development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

These systems use sensors, cameras, and radar technology to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and assist the driver in avoiding collisions. ADAS includes features such as:

● Automatic emergency braking: This feature detects potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver fails to react in time.
● Lane departure warning: This system monitors the vehicle’s position within its lane and alerts the driver if the car drifts out of the lane without signaling.
● Lane-keeping assist: Similar to the lane departure warning, this feature gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift.

 
 
 
 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and even accidents. A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) constantly monitors the pressure in all four tires and alerts the driver if any tire is outside the recommended pressure range.

This feature can help prevent accidents caused by tire-related issues and improve overall vehicle performance

 
 
 
 

Collision Warning Systems

Forward collision warning and rear cross-traffic alert are two essential car safety features that can help prevent accidents by providing timely warnings of potential hazards.

Forward collision warning uses sensors to detect vehicles or obstacles in the car’s path and alerts the driver to take action to avoid a collision. Rear cross-traffic alert, on the other hand, warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or driveway.

 
 
 
 

Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control is an advanced version of traditional cruise control that automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. This feature not only provides a more comfortable driving experience on highways but also helps prevent rear-end collisions caused by sudden braking or traffic congestion.
 
 
 
 

Blind Spot Detection System

Changing lanes can be a risky maneuver, especially if there’s a vehicle in your blind spot. Blind spot detection systems use sensors to monitor the areas beside and behind your vehicle, alerting you if there’s a car in your blind spot.

This feature can help reduce the risk of accidents caused by lane changes and make merging onto highways safer.

 
 
 
 

Rearview Cameras and Parking Sensors

Parking can be a challenging task, especially in tight spaces or crowded lots. Rearview cameras and parking sensors are essential car safety features that can significantly reduce the risk of parking-related accidents.

A rearview camera displays a live video feed of the area behind the vehicle, providing increased visibility and helping the driver avoid obstacles.

Parking sensors use ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the vehicle and emit an audible alert to warn the driver of their proximity.

These features work together to improve parking safety and make it easier to maneuver in tight spots.

 
 
 
 

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Electronic stability control is a crucial car safety feature that helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles during sudden maneuvers or in slippery conditions.

ESC uses sensors to monitor the vehicle’s movements and compares them to the driver’s intended direction. If the system detects a discrepancy, it automatically applies the brakes to individual wheels and adjusts the engine’s power to help the driver maintain control.

ESC has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by skidding or loss of control.

 
 
 
 

Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Emergency Braking

With the increasing number of pedestrians on the roads, pedestrian detection has become an essential car safety feature to prevent accidents involving walkers, joggers, and cyclists. 

This technology uses cameras and radar to identify pedestrians in the vehicle’s path and warns the driver if a collision is imminent. If the driver does not react in time, the system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact.

By adding an extra layer of protection for vulnerable road users, pedestrian detection systems play a vital role in enhancing road safety.

 
 
 
 

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a vital car safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during emergency braking.

By preventing wheel lock-up, ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control and avoid skidding, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents.

Most modern vehicles come standard with ABS, but it’s essential to ensure your car is equipped with this crucial safety feature.

 
 
 
 

Automatic High Beams

Driving at night can be challenging, especially when dealing with oncoming traffic or navigating poorly lit roads. Automatic high beams are a useful car safety feature that adjusts the vehicle’s headlight intensity based on the surrounding conditions.

This system automatically switches between high and low beams depending on the presence of other vehicles, ensuring optimal visibility without blinding oncoming drivers.

By providing better illumination and reducing the risk of accidents, automatic high beams contribute to safer nighttime driving.

 
 
 
 

Conclusion

When purchasing a new vehicle, it’s essential not to overlook these critical safety features, as they can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and saving lives. From advanced driver assistance systems to pedestrian detection, these technologies work together to create a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.

Prioritize your safety by choosing Chris Auffenberg Ford. We have a vast inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles, all of which are equipped with these safety features to ensure your and your loved ones’ protection. For any queries, you can visit our dealership and contact us for a safe future on the road!

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