Beyond Airbags: Advanced Safety Features Every New Car Should Have

Published on January 5, 2025

by Andrew Maclean

When it comes to purchasing a new car, safety is a top priority for many buyers. We all want to feel secure and protected while on the road, and with advanced automotive technology advancements, it’s no surprise that car manufacturers are constantly upping the game when it comes to safety features. While airbags have long been the essential safety component in cars, the latest advancements in technology have given rise to a new generation of safety features beyond airbags. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most advanced safety features that every new car should have, making your driving experience not only safer but also more secure and comfortable.Beyond Airbags: Advanced Safety Features Every New Car Should Have

Adaptive Cruise Control

Traditionally, cruise control was used as a tool for maintaining a constant speed on the highway. However, with the latest technological advancements, adaptive cruise control takes this feature to a whole new level. This feature uses sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle in front and automatically adjusts the speed of your car to maintain a safe distance. It also maintains the desired speed set by the driver, making long-distance driving and heavy traffic easier and less stressful.

Emergency Brake Assist

Emergency brake assist is a safety feature that works in tandem with the adaptive cruise control. It uses sensors to detect an impending collision and prepares your car for impact by engaging the brakes and tightening up the seatbelts. This feature comes in handy in situations where the driver may have a delayed reaction or is unable to apply the brakes in time.

Lane Departure Warning

Lane departure warning systems use cameras and sensors to detect when your car is straying from its designated lane. This feature alerts the driver through beeps, vibrations, or visual alerts to take corrective action, preventing accidents caused by driver inattention or drowsiness. Some advanced systems can even make small adjustments to your steering, keeping your car safely in the middle of the lane.

Blind Spot Monitoring

With blind spot monitoring, sensors and cameras are used to detect vehicles in the blind spot and alert the driver through a warning light or sound. This feature is particularly useful on busy highways or when changing lanes, as it helps avoid collisions and allows for safer lane changes.

Electronic Stability Control

Electronic stability control is a vital safety feature that helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles in hazardous road conditions. It uses sensors to monitor the movement of the car and intervenes by applying brakes to individual wheels when it senses a loss of control. This feature is especially useful in icy or wet road conditions, preventing skidding and loss of control.

Forward Collision Warning

This feature uses cameras and sensors to monitor the roadway and detect an impending collision. It then alerts the driver through visual and audio cues, giving them time to react and avoid the accident. Some advanced systems can even apply the brakes automatically to prevent or reduce the impact of a collision.

360-Degree Camera

Backing up or parking a car can be a daunting task, especially for new drivers. But with a 360-degree camera, this task becomes a breeze. This feature uses multiple cameras to give a bird’s eye view of the car, displaying the surrounding environment on the dashboard screen. This view helps drivers navigate tight parking spaces and avoid obstacles, making the driving experience safer and more convenient.

Adaptive Headlights

Driving at night can be a challenge, particularly on winding roads. Adaptive headlights solve this problem by moving with the steering wheel, providing better visibility and allowing drivers to see around corners. This feature has been proven to reduce nighttime accidents by enhancing visibility and reducing driver fatigue.

Conclusion

Beyond airbags, advanced safety features have become a vital component in modern cars, providing drivers with peace of mind while on the road. These features may add an extra cost to the vehicle, but the added safety and convenience they offer are well worth it. As technology continues to advance, we can only expect to see more innovative safety features that will make driving even safer and more enjoyable. Keep these advanced safety features in mind when searching for your next car, and you’ll be sure to find a ride that not only meets your needs but also keeps you and your loved ones safe on the road.