Frequently find yourself dodging potholes, navigating busy highways, or encountering reckless drivers? Cars today are packed with technology designed to keep you and your passengers safe, so if you’re looking to upgrade or buy a new car, here are the top car safety features to consider.
Tech That Prevents Accidents
When dealing with slippery surfaces, sudden obstacles, or unexpected lane changes, some modern safety features allow your car to respond automatically, helping to prevent collisions.
ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
If you’ve ever had to brake suddenly, you know how easy it is to lose control – especially on wet and uneven roads. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking up, which allows you to steer while braking.
Pair that with electronic stability control (ESC), which helps prevent skidding, and you’ve got pretty much everything you need to keep your car steady when you need it most.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Collision Warnings
Distractions happen. Maybe you glance at your passengers, adjust the aircon, or check your mirrors for a split second, only to look up and see traffic ahead has come to a halt. Automatic emergency braking (AEB) detects obstacles and applies the brakes if you don’t react in time.
Collision warnings work alongside AEB, alerting you if you’re too close to another vehicle – an extra layer of protection when you need it most. However, keep in mind that these systems may be less effective in extreme weather or poor visibility.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Fatigue or loss of concentration can cause you to drift out of your lane without realising it. Lane departure warning (LDW) notifies you when you’re straying, while lane keeping assist (LKA) gently steers you back into position. It’s particularly useful on long-distance drives.
Smart Features That Make Driving Safer
Beyond keeping your car stable in emergencies, some advanced features actively improve your everyday driving experience. These smart technologies work in the background, whether you’re navigating traffic or cruising long stretches of highway.
Blind Spot Monitoring and Adaptive Cruise Control
Changing lanes on a busy highway? Blind spot monitoring alerts you if there’s a car in your blind spot, making overtaking safer. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe following distance by adjusting your speed automatically.
Speed Limit Recognition and Lane Keep Assist
Speed limit recognition technology scans road signs and shows you the current speed limit on your dashboard, which is helpful if you missed a sign. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) also keeps your vehicle within the road markings to help avoid drifting and potential accidents.
Extra Safety Measures You Can’t Ignore
Many safety features have been designed to act as a backup system in case of emergencies. This allows safety technology to step in when things go wrong, lowering the risk of an accident or reducing the severity of one.
ESC and ABS: A Power Duo
Electronic stability control (ESC) and ABS work together to prevent skidding and keep your car under control, especially in sharp turns or slippery conditions. These systems are essential for driving on unpredictable surfaces.
Emergency Braking and Collision Avoidance
Many newer cars include autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which constantly monitors the road ahead. While your car may react to sudden obstacles, the system’s effectiveness can vary based on weather conditions and visibility, so it’s not a replacement for driver awareness.
Beyond Built-In Safety
Even if your car has all the right safety features, it helps to know your insurer has your back when something goes wrong. Car insurance apps like Prime Protect may offer features like real-time tracking, emergency assistance, and instant claim submissions – depending on your policy.
Note: These app features vary by provider and may be subject to terms and conditions.
How Good is Your Car Insurance?
Of course, safety goes beyond just features. Make sure you have the right car insurance to back you up. For flexible coverage options, get a quote online for a hassle-free experience. Not sure which insurance is right for you? This guide breaks it all down.
So, there you go! When it comes to staying safe on the road, invest in the right safety systems, drive with awareness, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it.
Disclaimer:
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information on car safety features and add-ons. However, always do your independent research. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a certified financial advisor before making insurance decisions
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