BusPatrol Explains How Technology is Affecting Vehicle Safety

In the changing automotive landscape, there are many assistive technologies that help the driving experience. However, many of these technologies present dangers related to distracted driving.

All Manassas drivers need to be aware that their actions could jeopardize innocent schoolchildren and other drivers and passengers on the road. Organizations like BusPatrol are making a concerted effort to optimize driver safety while preserving the safety of schoolchildren riding on the bus.

Here are 5 of the most common assistive technologies available in today’s vehicles, along with some systems that present a dangerous distraction from the road.

1. Self-Driving Systems

While the industry is many years away from producing a truly self-driving car, many automakers like Tesla have introduced partial vehicle independence. These systems as they stand today must be used with a driver who is ready to take control of the automobile in case of any safety issues.

Self-driving cars must be programmed to stop for the red flashing lights of a school bus and to respect the stop-arms that protect children from walking too close to the bus when they cross the road. If these cars are not properly set up, they could endanger schoolchildren and other drivers.

2. Adaptive Cruise Control

One of the most useful technologies available on many new cars is the adaptive cruise control system. When these cars are placed in cruise control mode, they can use forward-facing radar to judge the distance to the next car in front of them and the velocity of that car as well. This increases safety on the highway as well as bringing the driver peace of mind. This system cannot substitute for an attentive driver, but it can take some of the guesswork out of driving on the highway.

3. Lane Departure Warnings

A lane departure warning system monitors the car’s position with regard to the lane markings on the road. If the car begins to drift out of its lane, the car will alert the driver. Some cars are able to maintain lanes on their own, going one step beyond the simple driver warning. These systems help to make the roads safer by reducing accidents.

4. Onboard Cameras

One of the best advances in vehicle technology is the advent of onboard cameras. According to Virginia-based organization - BusPatrol, these cameras began as simple backup aids and evolved to the 360-degree camera system which is available on many newer vehicles. When a car is in reverse, the backup cameras are activated, together with sensors that detect pedestrians or other vehicles passing within a set radius. Many cars also automatically brake when they detect these problems.

5. Bluetooth Technology

While Bluetooth systems are marketed as a safety improvement, making and receiving phone calls while on the road is still a serious distraction. Many Bluetooth systems require a driver to use the vehicle touch screen to answer a call or text. It is better to use voice-controlled systems that require no driver input on the touch screen.

6. Smartphone Integration

Smartphone integration is another area that is marketed as a convenience and safety upgrade but can cause accidents. Looking down at a touch screen causes drivers to take their eyes off the road for only a few seconds, but many drivers know all too well that a few seconds are all it takes to get into a dangerous situation.

Systems like Apple’s CarPlay enable drivers to reach many of their phones’ apps and controls using the vehicle touch screen. Again, it is better to use voice-controlled systems than the touch screen, and it is best not to interact with smartphones at all while you are behind the wheel.

Driver Safety is Paramount

When Manassas drivers take to the road, they need to be aware of all of the advantages and disadvantages of using assistive technologies. Warning systems that can detect a stopped school bus or stop arm need to be brought to the forefront. While many of these technologies are safety boosters, some present major problems for driver safety.

It is crucial to remember that even hands-free Bluetooth systems can pose major risks to the driver and cars around them. For example, if a driver were to miss a stopped school bus, a child could be injured or killed. Companies like BusPatrol make it their mission to increase driver and passenger safety for the people of Manassas.