With more than 253 million cars and trucks on the road, it’s no surprise that car accidents are becoming an increasingly common occurrence. In fact, if the trend continues, road traffic injuries are projected to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2030.
Propelling this trend, in large part, is the fact that so many people can’t put their phones down – even while driving. Distracted driving is playing a large role in the cause of so many of these accidents – triggering more states to make it illegal to use a cellphone on the road. (And for good reason. Studies show that texting while driving causes a 400% increase in time spent with eyes off the road.)
While the expanded use of technology isn’t good for drivers, advances in automobile safety features can help lower the number of collisions on the road. If you’re looking to buy a new car, keep in mind that newer models that include some of the following safety features can reduce your risk of getting into an accident and cost less to insure.
While you probably already know about air bags and anti-lock brakes, here are few of the latest innovations in car safety you should keep in mind if you’re shopping around for a new car.
(1) Adaptive cruise control. When you’re on the highway, and the car in front of you slows down, this feature adjusts your speed accordingly – keeping you a safe distance from other drivers.
(2) Lane departure warnings. On long road trips, it’s easy to get distracted and gradually drift out of your lane. Cars equipped with this feature alert you with a loud, audible warning so you can course correct quickly.
(3) Blind spot detection systems. Have you ever started to change lanes, only to quickly swerve back after suddenly noticing another car? Blind spot detection systems can help you avoid accidents by alerting you that another car is next to you but out of your line of sight.
(4) Tire pressure monitors. You probably already know about the dangers associated with getting a flat tire in the middle of rush hour traffic, but tires that are not properly inflated can increase your risk of a collision too. Underinflated tires don’t grip the road properly – increasing your chances of skidding in wet conditions. Cars equipped with tire pressure sensors warn you when one or more of your tires need to be inflated.
Reliable, Comprehensive Car Insurance
John Bailey Company has been offering the Knoxville and East Tennessee region a comprehensive auto insurance policy since 1946. Because we are an independent insurance agency and not owned by a large corporate insurance company, JBCo shops our stable 8 “A Rated” auto insurance companies for our clients. Contact us today for a car insurance quote, we promise a 24-hour turnaround. Call 865.524.0785 or email brandon@johnbaileyco.com.