The History of Car Safety

The History of Car Safety

The first vehicle was built in the late 1800s, but it wasn’t until the Model T was mass-produced in 1908 that drivers realized the potential dangers of vehicles. Manufacturers eventually installed hydraulic brakes to improve safety, and it was available in nearly every vehicle by the late 1920s. Car manufacturers continue to focus on safety today while making improvements with each model. Of course, wrecks still happen due to many reasons, which is why it’s important to use competent collisions shops or professional auto repair services to help get your vehicle back on the road.

Timeline for Car Safety

Vehicle manufacturers across the world have come a long way in improving safety for both drivers and passengers. These changes over the years have played a key role in decreasing the number of fatalities and injuries due to car wrecks.

Here is a timeline of the major changes that happened to improve safety in the vehicle industry between 1930-1980.

• 1930 – All Ford vehicles begin to use safety glass
• 1934 – General Motors performs its first crash test
• 1937 – Many automakers begin to include more cushioning to the back of front seats to improve safety for backseat passengers
• 1949 – Chrysler begins using disc brakes in Crown Imperial
• 1958 – United Nations creates standards for vehicle safety
• 1958 – Three-point seat belt becomes the standard for Volvo vehicles
• 1964 – The United States requires new cars to include front outboard lap belts
• 1974 – General Motors begins to include airbags in some vehicles
• 1979 – The United States begins crash-testing vehicles while posting the results

Many more advances continue to happen to improve vehicle safety for modern cars and trucks. These safety features eventually became widespread, whether it was anti-lock brake systems, blind-spot sensors, adaptive headlights, or rear-view cameras. Airbags also continue to evolve to provide even greater protection. Safety will only continue to be a top priority as modern vehicles become even more advanced with each passing year. It’s important that you work with mechanics who are knowledgeable and certified to work on a variety of problems on all makes and models.

We gave Fred the task of finding a needle-in-a-haystack electrical problem with a van that hadn’t been run in years, and he did. I can’t say enough about Fred’s knowledge, skills, and most of all his honesty and dedication to his customers and their satisfaction. I’ve been a Fred [customer for] more than 30 years ago.

Kristina always knows what’s going on with our cars, recommended service intervals, and has a plain language explanation for everything that needs doing.

I have recommended several people to Fred’s Auto Repair, and everyone has raved about his service and fair pricing. Thanks, guys — Always a pleasure doing business with you!

Cathy B.

Reach Out to Auto Repair Services to Learn More

Fred’s Auto Repair specializes in a wide range of services, such as wheel alignment, car battery replacement, oil changes, and tune-up services. Our ASE certified mechanics can easily handle all types of repair work. We also pride ourselves on providing top-quality repairs at an affordable price for each customer.

Contact our team today to learn even more about using our auto repair services conveniently located in Briarcliff Manor and Shrub Oak!