New technology appears to be preventing fatal car accidents

On behalf of Dickman Law Offices, P.S.C. posted in Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents on Monday, May 21, 2012

Car accidents are difficult for both the victims and their families. Someone who is injured in a car accident in Covington or elsewhere may be unable to work and might be forced to endure surgeries, lengthy hospital stays and painful rehabilitation. Sadly, many people are killed in car accidents, and their family members must learn how to go on with their lives without their loved one.

Fortunately, fewer families may have to endure that pain. That’s because new numbers show that there has been a significant decline in fatalities on U.S. highways over the years. Since 2005, there has been a 25 percent decrease in fatalities.

Better road conditions, improved signage and a crackdown on drunk drivers are some of the reasons why there have been fewer fatal car accidents. However, some say new technology can also be credited for making vehicles safer.

Forty years ago, the federal government began requiring car makers install certain safety features, such as the seat belt. In recent years, the government has required that all cars be installed with electronic stability control. In the coming years, the government may require vehicles be installed with rear back-up cameras.

Forward collision avoidance systems have shown to reduce car accidents, but it appears some of the most advanced technology is yet to come.

Soon, Ford Fusions will be installed with a system that warns drivers when they begin to drift into another lane of traffic. The technology will even help guide them back into their own lane.

In addition, the Ford Fusion will be able to detect whether a person is fatigued. If they are drowsy, an alert will sound.

It will still be a while until most vehicles have such advanced technology installed. However, even with the technology, drivers must remain alert and attentive on the road to prevent fatal accidents from occurring.

Source: MSNBC, “Highway deaths plunging as cars become safer,” Paul Eisenstein, May 21, 2012

Posted in: Car Accidents, Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury