7 Safety Features Your Modern Car Should Have

September 5th, 2023 by

Key Takeaways:

  • Your safety on the road is paramount, and modern cars come equipped with advanced features to enhance it.
  • From adaptive cruise control to blind-spot monitoring, these safety features can prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers.
  • Understand the importance of these technologies in keeping you safe and informed while driving.
  • When shopping for a new car, prioritize vehicles with these safety features to ensure a secure and enjoyable driving experience.

For any car buyer, safety is a top concern. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, knowing that you and your loved ones are protected is essential. In today’s automotive landscape, manufacturers have recognized this need and incorporated many safety features into their vehicles. At Cutter Buick GMC, we understand that safety is paramount to our customers in Honolulu and beyond. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the crucial safety features your modern car should have. As you explore our selection of vehicles, consider these features as vital components of your next car purchase, ensuring peace of mind with every drive.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a standout safety feature in modern cars. ACC takes traditional cruise control to the next level by utilizing sensors and radar to monitor the distance between your car and the vehicle in front. This system automatically adjusts your vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance, making highway driving more relaxed and secure.

But ACC isn’t just about convenience; it’s a valuable safety tool. It reduces the risk of rear-end collisions by maintaining a safe gap from the vehicle ahead, even if traffic suddenly slows down. Thus, it can help prevent accidents caused by delayed reactions.

Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist

Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) are safety features designed to combat one of the leading causes of accidents: lane drifting. LDW alerts you when your vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane, typically through visual or auditory warnings. On the other hand, LKA takes it a step further by actively assisting in steering your car back into its lane.

These features are especially valuable for long highway drives or during moments of driver fatigue when unintentional lane drifting becomes more likely. LDW and LKA work together to ensure you stay within your lane, reducing the risk of collisions due to lane departure.

Blind-Spot Monitoring 

Blind spots, those areas around your vehicle not visible in your mirrors, have long been a concern for drivers. Modern cars address this issue with Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) systems. BSM uses sensors to monitor the areas alongside and behind your vehicle, areas that are typically challenging to see with mirrors alone.

When a vehicle enters your blind spot, BSM typically alerts you through visual indicators in your side mirrors or auditory signals. Some systems even offer active intervention, nudging your car away from a potential collision course if you attempt to change lanes while a vehicle is in your blind spot.

Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Emergency Braking 

In today’s bustling urban environments, pedestrians can unexpectedly cross your path. Pedestrian Detection, often integrated with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), is a cutting-edge safety feature that uses cameras and sensors to identify pedestrians in or near your vehicle’s path.

When a potential collision is detected, your car can provide both visual and audible warnings to alert you. If you fail to react quickly, AEB can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent an impact. This feature is especially valuable in city driving scenarios, where pedestrian traffic is common and unexpected movements can occur anytime.

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Collision Mitigation Systems 

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) is your virtual co-pilot, scanning the road ahead for potential hazards. It uses radar or cameras to monitor the distance between your vehicle and the one in front. When FCW senses an impending collision, it issues a warning, giving you precious seconds to react.

But what if you’re unable to respond promptly? That’s where Collision Mitigation Systems come into play. These systems can take action on your behalf. They apply the brakes or provide additional steering input to help you avoid or mitigate the severity of a collision. Whether it’s a sudden stop by the car ahead or a pedestrian crossing your path, FCW and Collision Mitigation Systems are your safety nets.

360-Degree Camera Systems 

Parking and maneuvering in tight spaces can be challenging. That’s where 360-degree Camera Systems, or Surround-View Cameras, come to the rescue. These systems utilize multiple cameras positioned around your vehicle to provide a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings.

When you engage reverse or low-speed maneuvers, the system displays a composite image on your infotainment screen, offering a top-down perspective of your vehicle and its proximity to objects or obstacles. This feature not only aids in parking but also enhances safety by reducing the risk of collisions with unseen objects or pedestrians. It’s like having an extra set of eyes, making navigating crowded parking lots or tight city streets a breeze.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) 

Backing out of parking spaces or driveways can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when your view is obstructed by surrounding vehicles or structures. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) is designed to alleviate this stress. RCTA uses sensors, often radar, to detect approaching vehicles or pedestrians from the sides as you reverse. The system issues alerts if a potential collision is detected, typically through visual or auditory signals. Some RCTA systems can even apply the brakes to prevent a crash if necessary.

Find the Right Car Today!

Your safety is our priority at Cutter Buick GMC. As you explore our selection of vehicles, we encourage you to prioritize models equipped with these essential safety features. From Adaptive Cruise Control to Lane Departure Warning and Blind-Spot Monitoring, these technologies are designed to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

Visit our dealership in Honolulu or explore our website to discover a wide range of vehicles equipped with these advanced safety features. Your peace of mind is just a test drive away. At Cutter Buick GMC, safety isn’t an option; it’s standard.

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