Here Are The 4 Major Driver Assistance Technologies the NHTSA Recommends in Cars

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is the regulatory agency that ensures the safety of vehicles that are being produced. One of the ways the agency does this is through the evaluation of vehicles and the various driver assistance technologies car manufacturers install in their vehicles. 

The four key driver assistance technologies they pay attention towards includes forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and rearview video systems. 

1. The Forward Collision Warning

This driver assistance technology uses sensors to detect the distance between a vehicle and the one ahead. If the technology determines that a collision is capable of happening, it quickly alerts the driver by giving visual or auditory cues. This gives the driver time to react and potentially avoid the accident. With the help of this technology in modern vehicles, it reduces the number of car crashes on the road.

2. The Lane Departure Warning

Here’s another driver assistance technology recommended by the agency. This technology also uses sensors to monitor the vehicle’s position within the lane. If the system detects that the car is unknowingly drifting out of the lane, it immediately alerts the driver through visual or auditory signs. This feature is particularly useful in preventing accidents caused by distracted driving.

3. The Automatic Emergency Braking

This is an advanced driver assistance feature that helps reduce or prevent vehicle collisions. The automatic emergency braking uses sensors to monitor the road ahead and automatically apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected. This technology feature is effective in cases where a driver fails to respond in time or underestimates the severity of a possible crash.

4. Rearview Video Systems

This driving assistance feature is designed to improve visibility and reduce the risk of backing accidents. These systems use cameras mounted at the car’s rear to provide the driver with a live video feed of the area behind the car. It helps drivers detect obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles that may be in their blind spots while reversing.

Are These Driver Assistance Features Standard in Cars?

No. Most of them are seen only in higher-trim vehicles. Car manufacturers are yet to incorporate these features into the base trim levels of car models. So, if you need them in the car you’re buying, it’ll be best to research if these features are available in the car before purchase.

Conclusion

These are some of the top four safety features in cars. While they are available in cars, they are mostly seen in higher-level trims and often don’t come as standard safety features.