Cutting-edge car technology could be the answer to safer roads. Research has found that front-crash prevention systems in vehicles significantly reduced the risk of being involved in a rear-end collision. In fact, forward collision warning systems reduced rear-end collisions by 23%. That percentage increased to 39% when forward collision warning systems were paired with automatic front emergency braking systems.
Researchers from the Insurance Institute of Highway Technology looked at US police-reported crash data from 22 states between 2010 and 2014 and compared the crash rates of a variety of vehicle models, with and without front crash prevention systems. The study concluded if all vehicles had been equipped with automatic emergency braking systems, rear end collisions could have been reduced by at least 700,000. Automatic braking systems were also effective in reducing the likelihood of injuries suffered from rear-end collisions by 42%. Even in instances where a collision isn’t avoided, auto-brake can prevent injuries by reducing the car’s speed on impact.
Many vehicles with front crash prevention systems also include other various collision avoidance technologies, such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. This makes it difficult to determine if front crash prevention systems alone are responsible for the decrease in crashes.
Many vehicle models offer these safety systems as an optional and expensive feature. However, some automakers are striving to make it a more affordable standard. Currently, Mercedes-Benz is the only automaker that offers a standard front crash prevention system on specific models. By the end of 2016, Toyota is expected to offer affordable safety-package options for every Toyota and Lexus model in the US. Overall, vehicle safety technology continues to grow in popularity and in time, it is likely to be a standard feature on future vehicles.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, do not hesitate to contact us or call us at (800) 676-5295. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you determine your options
