Safety features may not seem particularly exciting but they are important to keep in mind when you are considering the purchase of a new vehicle. The most basic features include electronic stability control, anti lock brakes, seatbelts and air bags. However, many of today’s cars contain advanced systems such as the ability to detect passengers and even blind spot warning systems. Let’s examine a few systems that are available on modern cars.

Air bags is one feature that usually standard in most cars; it prevents the passenger from hitting the steering wheel and windshield upon impact. Many cars feature both front and side bags. The very first auto maker to install air bags in its vehicles is Mercedes Benz. Today, air bags can be found even in the most affordable vehicles. Air bags have the potential to seriously injure small children; that’s why they should always be seated in the rear. Some new systems utilize bags that deploy in various stages depending on the actual force of the impact.

Most autos come equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system. This works by detecting the pressure in your tires and lets you know when your tires need to be replaced. Tires which are improperly inflated can lead to blow outs and spin-outs on the road.

George Cayley first invented the seatbelt in the late nineteenth century. Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory in many countries. Seat belts can minimize gave injuries by preventing the passenger from hitting sharp objects and materials during a collision. Since pretensioners tighten up, they also prevent an occupant from sliding under the belt during an accident. All vehicles in the United States produced today come standard with seatbelts.

One serious injury that can be sustained during an automobile accident is whiplash. The head rest is an integral component that can prevent neck injuries. A headrest minimizes the range of motion of the head and neck during a crash. In order for a restraint to work it does need to be properly adjusted.

Anti Lock Brakes is another prominent feature. This helps the vehicle remain stable and in control during sudden and hard braking. As a result it prevents the wheels from locking up and skidding. Most new vehicles come with ABS.

There is one company in the automotive industry that has a solid reputation for emphasizing safety and this Volvo. Some of the brand’s new autos now come with Pedestrian Detection; this system prevents accidents by warning the driver if there is an individual in front of the vehicle’s path. This innovative system will actually brake for the driver if he or she does not hit the brakes for some reason. A radar which is mounted in the grille works in conjunction with a camera in order to detect objects. This system can brake for other vehicles as well.

Even with all of these advanced features; nothing can compensate for the skill and attention span of the driver. Driving recklessly and not paying attention to the road increases our chances of being involved in a serious collision, no matter how advanced the safety systems on your car are.

Author Bio: Written by Mercedes James – For great deals check out Subaru Forester San Fernando Valley. For safe vehicles check out the inventory at Volvo C70 Van Nuys. Lincoln Cars Glendale has the MKS and MKZ in stock in Los Angeles.

Category: Automotive
Keywords: car safety, auto safety, car safety systems, car safety features