Technologies That Make Driving Safer And Easier

Drivers and insurers alike stand to gain a lot from safe-driving technology. With a decline in accidents, insurance rates should go down, as should repair and medical expenses. Electronic and self-driving cars have been touted as the way of the future, though their public acceptance could be years away.

There are several different types of technology that are currently in use in some form. These cut down on avoidable mistakes and lessen the likelihood of car wrecks. Here are six features that contribute to safer driving:

1. Warning system

Many newer cars come equipped with some form of warning system. Through the use of sensors and motion technology, cars can be alerted of approaching problems. Potential dangers like heavy pedestrian areas, animal crossings and moving objects can be spotted by sensors.

2. Interactive traffic

Cars will be able to interact not only with each other, but with traffic signals, parking spots and buildings, as well. As a driver, you would be notified if there is heavy congestion on a certain road. If there is no traffic at a light, the light could turn green and allow you to pass. By adding another dimension of communication, drivers become more alert.

3. Heated wipers

When driving in certain climates, your windshield can become difficult to see through. Snow, ice and rain can affect your visibility, as well as your ability to maneuver safely. Heated wipers can keep your windshield free from extreme weather, allowing you to operate your vehicle more effectively.

4. Spotlight software

Driving at night can be a difficult task, even for someone with perfect vision. Spotlight software is able to detect moving objects and hazards in the dark. Using an infrared camera, a radar locates the outline of an object and then projects a yellow triangle onto your windshield so that you can see the object. This notifies you of pedestrians and other moving hazards that might not be in your view, but are approaching nearby.

5. Parking help

Parking missteps lead to a tremendous amount of damage across the entire transportation industry. Some cars have technology that enables them to park themselves without the aid of a driver. Other systems rely on sensors to warn you if you are getting too close to another parked car. This can cut down on the risks associated with parking within a confined space.

6. Smartphone entry

Forgetting or losing your keys is a common habit of drivers. To bypass this issue, cars can be equipped with locking and unlocking capabilities directly from your smartphone. If you lose your phone, you can still open your car the traditional way. You can also pop your trunk or set your car alarm. Using your smartphone can eliminate the potential for thieves to steal your car because you can interact with your car's security system in real time.

Making driving safer is a necessary and much-needed advancement for the entire auto industry. Car insurance companies will welcome any technology that minimizes their payouts from accidents. The rate of car-related deaths per year is expected to decline.