Article Advise

submitted: Jul 14th 2008 | by: JasonLancaster | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 527 | |

Vehicle safety is a puzzling issue for automakers. Despite improvements in vehicle safety measures, vehicle-related fatalities in the U.S. have stayed the same over the years, with about 40 000 deaths a year. Why are fatalities continuing at the same level despite technology which makes cars safer? One suggestion is that it's not unsafe cars that are responsible for these deaths - it's the unsafe drivers behind the wheel.

New research from Robert Bosch LLC suggests that two out of every three drivers don't hit the brakes hard enough before an accident. This doesn't mean the driver wants the accident - it's simply the nature of the human condition. During an accident, a multitude of things are competing for the driver's attention, from multiple warning systems going off and distractions from other passengers, to the simple act of processing what's going on in the surrounding environment. All these combined together can delay the decision-making process a few milliseconds too long, and impair the driver's ability to hit the brakes fast enough, or with enough force.

As a solution to this, Bosch proposes using a predictive brake-assist technology, which constantly monitors the vehicle's surroundings to detect any likely accidents and determine stopping distance. If an accident is evident, the brake-assist technology will react by activating the hydraulic brake, which the vehicle's computer has engaged for full-force braking as soon as the anticipated accident is detected.

Although there's not enough research yet to know for sure, it's reasonable to think the predictive brake-assist technology will be useful in preventing some of the over 2 million front-end collisions that occur every year. However, some argue that this technology might actually decrease safety, because drivers might not fully understand how the system works and erroneously believe it will do most of the braking for them. They then might not try to stop the car themselves, increasing their risk of accident. This argument seems inane, but shouldn't be completely dismissed. More research and testing are needed before this system can be made mandatory.

Some manufacturers are already using predictive braking technology. Mercedes Benz has implemented the system in their SL550. Based on the amount of pressure the driver places on the brake pedal, the car is able to sense an emergency and apply the maximum power boost. Many other manufacturers, such as Toyota, Volvo, Cadillac, and BMW are also testing the technology.

The predictive brake-assist technology is only one new electronic system to improve automotive safety. In addition to Bosch's proposed predictive brake assist technology, there's also something called "lane departure notification." Simply stated, lane departure notification uses an electric eye to determine if the car is driving outside the lines. This system would most benefit drivers who may be falling asleep, as driving outside the lane will trigger an audible warning.

In keeping with the idea that drivers themselves can be a safety issue, Bosch has also proposed modifying current vehicle safety ratings to include a sixth star. The sixth star will be used to rank a vehicle's accident avoidance systems, such as predictive braking and lane departure notification. It's a good way for consumers to compare a vehicle's complete safety rating, rather than just its crashworthiness.

About the Author

Author Jason Lancaster, a car business veteran, developed AccurateAutoAdvice.com. You'll find accurate auto advice and car buying tips.

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