Do you like the new car smell or the shine of new paint? Buying a car can be exciting and stressful at the same time. Negotiations and paperwork can lead to many hours spent at a car dealership. Learning about the new technology and safety features available on cars today may require even more time at the dealership.
Based on your insurance company, discounts may be available for these new safety features.
Here is a list of new safety features/systems that may be in your next car.
Forward Crash Avoidance
We’ve all been in a situation where traffic comes to a sudden stop or we approach a car too quickly. This system helps prevent those situations by alerting you when your vehicle is getting close to another auto or object. The system may automatically cause your car to brake in order to avoid the collision.
Lane Departure
Fatigue or distractions can cause you to inadvertently stray across lane markings. A lane departure warning system alerts you if this happens when your turn signal is not activated. It may even try to pull you back into your lane.
Blind Spot Monitoring
If you drive through rush hour traffic on a regular basis, changing lanes can be difficult. A blind spot monitoring system alerts you to the presence of an auto, or other object, in the vehicle's blind spot.
Backup Warning System
Sadly, we’ve all heard of the stories of small children injured or killed by a vehicle backing up. All new vehicles sold in the U.S. will have these systems installed. These systems are comprised of sensors and/or cameras that alert the driver of objects located behind the vehicle. These systems may also include an alert when traffic is approaching the vehicle from the side. These systems may or may not include automatic braking functionality.
Adaptive Headlights
As we approach fall, deer hits significantly increase. Adaptive headlights follow the path of the vehicle, adjusting the beam to the curve of the road, as well as the speed and steering angle of the auto. These new headlights may help spot animals that dart out onto the road. Please note: Daytime running lights or automatic on/off headlight features are different from adaptive headlights, and do not qualify for a discount.
Driver Fatigue Sensing System
Drowsy driving is a problem in the United States, which often has tragic results. This system will monitor driver steering patterns and other behaviors to detect a lack of attention and/or potential drowsiness. The driver is typically alerted by vibrations in the steering wheel or seat, or with audible warnings.
Talk to your independent insurance agent to see if your car qualifies.
If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the blog “Have you purchased a car lately?” This blog shares things to consider when purchasing a new car as well as websites that can help you research the right car for you or your family.
Do you have any tips or information you’d like to share? I’d love to hear your thoughts; please share them in the box below.
This article is intended for general educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be construed to communicate legal or professional advice. Further, this article is not an offer to sell insurance. Please consult with your licensed insurance agent for specific coverage details and your insurance eligibility. All policies are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, definitions, and exclusions contained therein.
