Advanced automobile technology usually means increased vehicle costs, but when weighed against car accident risks, the extra cost might be justified. In response to consumer demand for safer automobiles, car makers are now installing technology systems that help drivers avoid crashes.

Many consumers cannot see how such technology could reduce car accidents. To them, it sounds like another way for manufacturers and dealers to get more money from customers. The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) offers consumers information that supports the effectiveness of advanced automobile technology.

In one study, HLDI found that two vehicle brands –Mercedes-Benz and Acura — equipped with crash avoidance technology experienced fewer insurance claims than the same models without the technology. Effective collision avoidance systems include the following.

Lane departure systems: With the use of cameras that detect lane markers, lane departure systems can alerts motorists if they drift into another lane. Vehicles with lane prevention tech can even guide cars carefully back into the proper lane.

Forward collision systems: Forward crash warning technology scans the road ahead and gives motorists an alert if it detects any objects. Advanced warning and prevention systems can also apply the brakes automatically to prevent a car accident.

Exterior lighting systems: Adaptive headlights differ from traditional lighting in several ways. Instead of maintaining a static position, these headlights can move up to 15 degrees in both directions depending upon your direction and your speed.

Blind spot systems: Blind spot detection tracks approaching vehicles and gives the driver an alert when automobiles enter his or her blind spot. Some blind spot systems can even stop drivers from entering an area of the road occupied by another vehicle.

As you know, car accidents are an unpleasant fact in Illinois that often result in personal injury claims. In the end, it is up to you to decide if enhancing your safety is worth the extra costs of advanced automobile technology.

Source: Cartelligent, “Should your next car have a crash prevention system?,” accessed March 14, 2018