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The Changing Landscape Of Automotive Safety

Over a decade ago, all vehicles were tested for driver safety by the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIFHS). The goal was simple: to identify models that offered less than adequate protection for motorists in the event of a collision. When the tests were first launched, the results were startling; dozens of models failed.

Since then, auto manufacturers have devoted their resources toward building vehicles that protect drivers and passengers from collision impact. In effect, automotive safety has become a priority. Today’s article will address upon how the industry is shifting their focus. I’ll describe the two-pronged approach taken by automakers as well as new advances in braking technology.

A Shift In Focus

When the IIFHS’s tests debuted, they focused mainly on frontal impacts. At the time, evidence suggested that frontal crashes caused a greater proportion of injuries and fatalities. That has changed. As a result of the mandated installment of airbags in vehicles over the last decade, fewer serious injuries and deaths are caused by front collisions. The focus has moved to side impacts.

Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and IIFHS now test vehicles for their ability to protect passengers from side collisions. While these type of accidents happen less frequently than frontal impacts, a larger portion of vehicular deaths are attributable to them. By conducting rigorous safety tests, the NHTSA and IIFHS hope to encourage automakers to install side airbags that offer better head protection.

Protection Versus Prevention

The automotive industry is pursuing driver safety on two paths. While car manufacturers are installing better impact protection measures (i.e. airbags), they are also developing collision prevention systems. Lane-change warning devices, electronic stability control, advanced cruise control, and other devices seek to manage the risk of traffic accidents.

One of the advantages of taking the prevention route is that such systems do not require platform modifications. Automakers can install preventative devices without changing the structural design of their fleets.

Advance In Braking Technology

The technology behind anti-lock brakes has expanded rapidly. Even though millions of drivers own cars equipped with anti-lock brakes, few truly understand how they work. Unfortunately, that prevents motorists from using them effectively when a collision is imminent. Car manufacturers are now designing braking systems that can “sense” when a motorist wants to aggressively apply the brakes, but is tentative. In the event of a looming accident, the ABS will trigger the brakes fully even if the driver does not actively engage them.

Driver safety remains a top priority for auto manufacturers. Even as vehicles become more advanced, the potential for accident-related injuries and fatalities is always present. By pursuing measures that are both protective and preventative, automakers can design vehicles that give motorists peace of mind.

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What To Do When You’re Involved In A Fender Bender

Being involved in a traffic collision can be extremely unnerving. It may be difficult to think clearly as you try to collect your thoughts and check whether you’re injured. It’s important that you know what steps to take in order to make sure the event is documented properly and you can follow up with the other driver. If you have never been involved in a fender bender, use the following tips as a blueprint to guide you through the experience.

Keep Your Thoughts To Yourself

A lot of motorists are tempted to absorb responsibility for the car accident, even if fault lies with the other driver. It’s fine to ask the other person if they’re injured, but avoid discussing the accident until the police arrive. That will give you time to clear your thoughts so you can provide an accurate account.

Take Pictures And Notes

Photograph both vehicles. Ideally, the photos should clearly show any damaged parts on your car and the positions of the vehicles in relation to the road. That will provide context. When you contact your insurance company, the photographs will help validate your claims.

Also, write down any notes that seem relevant; you may be unable to recall certain details later. If anybody who is not involved with the accident witnessed it, collect their contact information.

File A Traffic Accident Report

It’s helpful to complete a police report, even if you and the other driver are uninjured. Not only does the report document the event, but it can often help accelerate the response from your insurance company.

Get The Other Driver’s Information

Getting the contact information of the other motorist is essential if you intend to follow up later. Ask for the person’s name, phone number, address, and insurance policy number. You’ll also want to have their driver’s license number. Finally, if the other person doesn’t own the car, ask how they are related to the owner and ask for the owner’s contact information.

Review Your Auto Insurance Policy

You should have a basic understanding about what your auto insurance policy covers before you’re involved in a collision. Take the time to review your policy. Does it cover a rental car and tow truck? Does it cover your car in the event the other driver is uninsured? At the very least, know where your policy is so you can quickly contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

One last note about getting into fender benders: if the damage is minor, it’s tempting to settle the matter privately rather than contacting your auto insurance provider. That can leave you vulnerable. The other motorist might change his mind and contact his provider, making up details that are inaccurate. If your carrier is unable to determine what truly happened, you may become exposed to a lawsuit. Play it safe and report the incident to your auto insurance provider. The extra time you spend is a good investment for peace of mind.

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Tire Options For Driving In Icy Conditions

In locations that receive a large amount of snow and ice, drivers need to compensate for the loss of traction they experience on the road. If ice covers the pavement, conventional treads offer little to no grip. That becomes a safety issue for the driver, his or her passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.

Car tire technology has improved substantially over the past twenty years. Motorists now have a number of options at their disposal for driving safely when the roads are packed with snow or ice. In today’s article, we’ll explore the available options for your car and how they can help you navigate the streets in inclement weather.

Traditional Winter Wheels

In order to provide drivers with more traction, Bridgestone, BF Goodrich, and other manufacturers have developed tires specifically formulated to dig more deeply into snowy – or icy – surfaces. The interweaving patterns of the treads are designed to bite into the surface, giving you more control behind the steering wheel.

There is a second important factor which makes winter wheels different than conventional tires. The compounds used in the rubber give them more flexibility. Not only does that allow the tires to resist stiffening during cold temperatures, but it allows the rubber to grip the pavement better.

Studded Tires

Studded treads are outfitted with numerous metal studs that jut out of the rubber. They’re typically used when traditional winter wheels cannot provide sufficient traction and grip. For example, if you’re driving on roads that are covered in sleet, the special tread patterns and pliable compounds used in the rubber may not be enough. As you can imagine, metal studs can dig deep into the surface, providing additional grip for the driver.

The problem with the studs is that they can damage roads. In fact, several states either prohibit their use or limit the times during the year when drivers are allowed to put them on their cars. For example, the state of Washington currently lets their residents use them only between November 1 and March 31.

Chaining Up

Snow chains offer the highest level of traction for motorists who are driving on snowy or icy roads. They’re high-maintenance to put on, but can provide a level of steering control that is lacking with the other winter driving options. On front-wheel drive vehicles, the chains are normally only placed on the front tires. On four-wheel drive vehicles, they’re either placed on all four of them or they’re placed on the rear set.

Your choice of whether to use winter wheels, studded treads, or snow chains on your car will depend mainly upon the conditions in which you’re driving. The three options above are listed according to how much grip and traction they provide. A small sheet of snow will require a different solution than pavement covered by sleet. If you’re uncertain about which option you should use on your car, ask your mechanic for advice.

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