Several advancements have been observed in the automotive industry, improving the vehicular performance of modern automobiles and making them safer for travel. Internal safety features coupled with other safety systems ensure that the vehicles and its passengers are less prone to be involved in a car accident. As stated by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rate of fatal car accidents was five times greater 60 years ago than today, despite the increased traffic and vehicles on the road in today’s society.
Experts can give credit for this drastic reduction in the rate of fatal car accidents to the various defense mechanisms that have been developed over the years to ensure passenger and vehicular safety. According to personal injury attorney John Yannone of Price Benowitz Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP, “Since the rate of fatal car crashes has dropped to an average of one death per every 100 million miles of vehicular travel in the last decade, it will be difficult to expect it to drop any further.”
The Age Of Seatbelt, Airbags, And Headrests
Seat belts, airbags, and headrests were viewed as luxuries back in time. Airbags had not become common until the 1980s, and seat belts were only created as lap belts. It was a long time after which a shoulder strap was attached to hold back the upper body from jerking forwards under a sudden force or collision. If it were not for the invention of these features, many injuries from car crashes would still be prevailing today, such as spinal fractures from snapping of the neck backward. These features secure us from the sudden forces and hold us back in our position, saving passengers from injuries and fatalities.
Improved Braking Systems
Between 1960 and 1980, drum brakes were considered normal, and they were widely popular. This changed drastically in the years following when disc brakes replaced drum brakes as they are more efficient and give the vehicle more control to stop suddenly if necessary. Today, these disc brakes are used on all four wheels of a vehicle, along with an anti-locking brake system (ABS) that also allows greater control over the car. The ABS restricts the wheels from locking up and allows more traction and greater stopping power even in times of emergency. Coupled with disc brakes, the anti-locking brake system does a great job at providing a firm grip even on the iciest and frictionless paths.
The Driver Assist Technology
Advanced technologies have assisted drivers in ensuring that they have a smooth and safe driving experience. In recent years, various forms of driver-assist systems have been developed and launched, with a range of different functions, including monitoring blind spots, adjusting the suspension, parking aid, providing control, and more. Several other advancements in vehicles that help with safety precautions include electronic control systems, adaptive cruise control, rear-view, video cameras, and more.
