It’s no secret that the last several years have given drivers significant advancements in technology that have both protected them and minimized the injuries caused by automobile accidents. In many cases these developments have been in response to new laws and regulations, but they are also the product of changes in science, technology, and the market demands of consumers. Regardless of why these safety features have come about, they have saved lives, avoided long-term disability, and helped drivers and passengers escape catastrophe.
At the same time, and ironically, these features have in many cases increased the risk of accidents. This occurs when drivers rely too heavily on technology to safely operate their vehicles. No matter what types of features are included in an automobile, every motorist has a legal duty to follow traffic laws and drive safely, with reasonable care and concern for the well-being of others who use the roads and highways. When a driver fails to do so, and causes an accident as a result, the victim can take legal action to recover compensation.Text Kevin Accident Attorneys are here to advocate for the rights of California victims who have been injured because of negligent drivers.
Recent safety advancements
Vehicle safety has come a long way since the early 2000s. Newer model cars come standard with a variety of features and tools that can keep drivers safe and reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash. These are a few examples:
Blind Spot Detection. Lane changes are always fraught with risks because of blind spots. Side and rear view mirrors can help, but drivers have always been expected to give a glance back to ensure once and for all that it’s safe to switch lanes. Detecting blind spots has changed in the last few years with detection features. These technologies warn drivers that a vehicle is in their blind spot, using sound or vibration alerts.
Lane Departure Warning. It’s easy for a vehicle to drift in and out of its lane, and this can happen even with the most focused and attentive drivers. Weather conditions and low lighting, combined with faded lines and a lack of reflectors, make this risk more pronounced. This technology, which is similar to blind spot detection, can notify a driver that he or she is leaving a lane. The driver can then take corrective action. Some vehicles even correct lane departures automatically.
Automatic Braking. Sensors and cameras in the vehicle can help detect when the driver is dangerously approaching another object on the road. This often happens when the automobile begins to come up to another vehicle far too quickly to slow down. These devices can then send a signal which applies the brakes and prevents a collision.
Anti-Skid Features. Snow and ice are naturally dangerous, but even standing water and heavy rainfall can present safety challenges. Not all roads are constructed and maintained to allow the proper drainage of rainwater. To minimize this hazard, newer automobiles come equipped with anti-skid technology. This feature redistributes power and braking to the appropriate parts of the automobile so slick conditions don’t result in a wreck.
Backup Cameras and Sensors. Since 2018, these devices have been standard features in all new vehicles sold in the United States. Cameras provide the driver with greater visibility to help ensure that the vehicle doesn’t crash into an object or person. Along with cameras, and sometimes used in conjunction with them, are backup sensors that alert the driver to persons and objects that may be difficult to see.
Keeping drivers safe but increasing the chances of accidents
It is somewhat paradoxical that these and other features have both made driving more safe and made it more dangerous. True, many drivers have employed these features into their everyday routines to minimize the risk of getting into accidents. But no technology can, or should, ever be a substitute for a driver’s use of his or her senses (including common sense). These features should add to, not replace, the use of sight and sound to safely navigate traffic.
Backup cameras provide an excellent example of how drivers can over rely on technology. Despite manufacturers’ warnings to the contrary, many drivers neglect to check their rear view and side view mirrors or even look over their shoulders before backing up. While a camera can help, it may not capture the entire scene. A child can quickly run behind a car and be struck. Or an object may not show up clearly on the camera due to sunlight or glare. Cameras can certainly help avoid accidents, but they are best used in addition to the driver’s eyes and ears.
What happens if there’s an accident?
In the event a car accident happens, the at-fault driver may mention or even blame the vehicle’s safety features in an attempt to avoid or minimize liability. But the fact is that all drivers owe everyone else on the road a duty of care. This duty includes taking reasonable steps to avoid wrecks and operate the vehicle safely. Car safety technology is no substitute or excuse for negligent driving. To the contrary, evidence that the driver relied too much on safety features may actually prove fault.
If you have been in a wreck, it will be up to you to show that the other driver caused it because of a negligent act or omission. Victims should reach out to an attorney who is licensed in their state and experienced handling personal injury cases. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys serve victims in various locations in California. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can fight for the compensation that you deserve.
