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.
Add A Comment