New cars are loaded with technology. Some technology, such as Bluetooth and in-car Internet, is convenient. Other technology, like rear-mounted radar, GPS vehicle tracking and forward-collision avoidance systems, can prevent a Quad Cities car crash. In this article, our Iowa accident attorneys list the innovations that seem most effective for preventing Iowa car crashes—and the technology that doesn’t work as well.

The best of the best:

  • Forward-collision avoidance systems: According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), forward-collision avoidance systems, especially those with autonomous braking, are extremely effective in reducing accidents. Crash-avoidance systems, such as the City Safety feature in select Volvo models, warn a driver if he is approaching another vehicle too quickly. If the driver does not respond, then the automatic braking system applies the brakes in order to prevent or minimize the collision. According to the IIHS, forward-collision avoidance systems can reduce accident claims by as much as 20 percent.
  • Adaptive headlights: Adaptive headlights shift direction to illuminate in the direction that a driver is steering. The IIHS found that adaptive headlights reduced nighttime accident claims by as much as 30 percent, depending on the model of the vehicle.

Great ideas, but no data (so far):

  • Blind-spot detection systems: Blind-spot detection systems prevent accidents by warning drivers when there is a car or bike in their blind spot. While this seems like a great idea, it is too early to know if this technology has a significant effect on accident rates.
  • Parking-assist systems: Parking in the city can be difficult. Sometimes it is hard to know if your car will fit into a given space. Parking-assist sensors determine if your car will fit in a parking space and steer the car into the space with little assistance from the driver. While this feature is convenient, it’s too early to know how parking-assist systems will affect car crash rates.

Not as great as it sounds:

  • Lane departure warning systems: Lane departure warning systems are designed to alert drivers when their car begins to move out of their lane. IIHS data shows that was a slight increase in insurance claims from drivers of vehicles with lane departure warning systems.

New safety features that may prevent accidents in the future include:

  • Cross traffic alerts: This feature warns drivers when their vehicle is about to cross into the path of another vehicle.
  • Curve speed warning: Curve speed warning uses GPS to determine if a vehicle is going to fast when turning a curve.
  • Fatigue warning: Fatigue warning tracks a driver’s behavior and sounds an alert if the driver appears to be falling asleep.
  • Night vision assist: Night vision assist uses infrared imaging to display objects on the road.
     

Even the best technology can’t prevent every accident. If you have been injured in a Quad Cities car accident, you need to be aware of your rights. Order a free copy of The Ultimate Guide For Automobile Accident Victims, our book for victims of Iowa vehicle crashes.

To schedule a free consultation with a Davenport personal injury lawyer, contact Hupy and Abraham at 563-275-6892​.

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.