The Evolution of Car Safety & How It Protects Drivers

The Evolution of Car Safety & How It Protects Drivers

Advances in technology over the years made it possible for cars to become much faster, but they also increased the chance of dangerous wrecks. All of these different improvements in technology require car manufacturers to invest in new features to increase safety. These changes in safety for cars will only continue to evolve and become more complex each year. Hiring an experienced auto mechanic is essential if you ever need any of these safety components repaired on your vehicle.

Here are the main safety features that continue to make an impact on the vehicle industry.

1. Seatbelts
   Seatbelts are some of the most critical safety features available in vehicles. The initial concept of seat belts was invented with a two-point design in the early 1900s. However, Volvo was the first manufacturer to use the standard three-point design in 1959. It wasn’t until 1970 that seatbelts became a standard safety feature in vehicles. All countries now require drivers to wear seat belts due to the significant role they play in increasing safety.

2. Airbags
   Airbags are another key safety feature in vehicles. The first airbag was invented in 1950, and it was introduced to the public during the 1970s. However, airbags didn’t perform well during this time period, and they were redesigned with a three-point structure in 1981. Airbags began to be used much more in the 1990s, as they are now an essential part of all vehicles. Many cars now use curtain, side, and knee airbags to maximize safety.

3. Lights
   Trying to drive in the dark is impossible without lights. Modern vehicles are equipped with three different types of lights, which include headlights, brake lights, and turn indicators. The brake light turns red once you tap your brakes, while the headlights are essential for seeing anything in front of you on the road. Turn indicators inform drivers whenever you are turning. All of these different lights play a critical role in staying safe. If any of these lights go out, it’s important to reach out to an auto mechanic for repairs.

4. Wipers
   Wipers on a vehicle are essential while you are driving in rainy weather. The first wiper was invented in England in 1903, and all vehicles are now equipped with wipers. A windscreen wiper can easily remove ice, snow, and rain to make it much easier for drivers to see the road. Getting your wipers replaced once a year is also recommended to make sure they continue to work at an optimal level.

5. Electrical Turn Indicators
   Electrical turn indicators play a key role in letting other vehicles know if you are turning left or right. Initially, the first turn indicator was invented in 1914, but it took almost 25 years before it was used in vehicles. Buick was the first vehicle to be equipped with a turn indicator in 1938, and it’s now a mainstay in all vehicles. A turn indicator is an often-overlooked safety feature that is essential to staying safe while driving on the road.

6. Bluetooth Technology
   Bluetooth technology allows you to drive with both hands while still using your cell phone. Operating a mobile phone “hands-free” is much safer than trying to place a call or send a text while driving. Bluetooth technology is also fairly easy to set up in modern vehicles, as it works by connecting through your audio system. Drivers can stay much more focused on the road with the help of this technology.

7. Shatter-Resistant Glass
   Laminated glass creates a shatter-proof design that is used in all windshields. A French chemist created laminated glass in 1903, as a layer of plastic is placed between two layers of lamination to keep the glass from shattering into many different pieces. Shatter-resistant glass provides much-needed protection, as you won’t have to worry about being cut by sharp pieces of glass with this innovative design.

8. Reverse Camera
   The use of reverse cameras in vehicles is a fairly modern safety feature. A reverse camera makes it much easier for drivers to back up, and the vehicle will automatically beep if a vehicle, obstacle or person is behind your car. Using these cameras is especially beneficial in busy parking lots or if you have young children at home. A reverse camera is now a standard feature for nearly every modern car or truck.

Reach Out to a Local Auto Mechanic to Learn More

Fred’s Auto Repair works on a wide range of vehicles. Remember, your car is a system with all of the parts – engine, tires, brakes, windshield wipers, etc. – working together to safely transport you to your destination.

I pulled into Fred’s because one of my tires was leaking. Mike Serafini was sooo incredibly helpful that I decided to ditch the dealership and bring the car back to him for a regular oil change service. He also [alerted] me that my tires were bald & I needed a new set. He got the right tires, mounted installed & aligned, did the oil change & inspection. They did an EXCELLENT job, AND they worked with me to drive me home and deliver the car to my home when the work was done! SUPERLATIVE customer service matters! I’d definitely recommend the team at Fred’s!

N. Moi

Our team provides many different services, such as car tune-ups, maintenance, battery replacement, oil changes, and much more. We can also answer any of your questions about keeping your vehicle well-maintained.

Feel free to give Fred’s Auto Repair a call today if you are in need of an auto mechanic!