Self-driving cars might still be a long way from becoming mainstream, but drivers may have a few stepping stones to tide them over along the way. Case in point: automatic emergency braking systems are expected to become standard features across all makes and models in cars. It might take a while, but consumer advisors are already telling drivers what they should (and should not) expect from automatic braking systems in the future.
How Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Work
Automatic emergency braking systems, or AEB systems, started in high-end luxury cars and have started to trickle their way down. They use lasers, cameras, and/or radar sensors to predict an impending collision up ahead and then warn the driver it what is known as a “Forward Collision Warning.” If the driver does not take action, the system will then begin to activate the brakes, add tension to the seat belts to prepare for a possible collision, and attempt to stop the vehicle or, at the very least, slow it down to reduce the severity of the crash.
There are three basic types – Higher Speed AEBs, Low Speed AEBs, and Pedestrian Auto Emergency Braking. Though often called different systems by different manufacturers, they all use the same basic technology, which work in the following ways:
- Higher Speed AEB is designed to detect that your car is closing a gap too quickly while operating at highway speeds and will alert and then engage at about 200 to 250 meters;
- Low Speed AEB is designed for stop and go traffic situations where there may be stoplights, stop signs, and other possible scenarios where, in a bad situation, the driver may be unable to react quickly enough to avoid a collision. The system here engages almost automatically;
- Pedestrian Auto Emergency Braking systems are designed to detect people, animals, and other slower moving objects in the road. Much like the Low Speed AEB, it usually engages braking automatically to reduce the risk of collision in situations where the driver may react too slowly.
Some vehicles come with only one type. Others come with a combination of two or three. However, most manufacturers seem to be working toward an all-in-one feature that would ensure drivers have an automatic braking feature for nearly every type of collision. Still others complement these features with an Adaptive Cruise Control system that holds speed on the highway while also slowing down when a car in front becomes too close. If something suddenly appears to block the vehicle’s path, the system them slows down and stops the car.
Victim in a Crash? Our Appleton, Wisconsin Auto Accident Drivers Can Help
Until automatic braking systems do finally make their way into all newer cars, drivers must continue to rely on the diligence, alertness, and sobriety of other drivers. Sadly, annual statistics show that other drivers do not always respect the rules of the road. As such, victims of crashes need an advocate, someone who is willing to fight for fair and just compensation for their injuries.
At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., we know that an injury caused by someone else’s negligence can have a significant impact on your life. We stand up for your rights against the insurance companies, and we work hard to get you the compensation that you deserve. To learn more about how we can help with your claim, contact our Appleton, Wisconsin auto accident attorneys for a free initial consultation. Call 920-739-7366 today.
Source:
http://rockrivertimes.com/2016/08/04/auto-emergency-braking-the-next-necessary-safety-feature/