There has been a shift over the years in the way that auto safety technology works. Basic safety systems like airbags and seatbelts were designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a car accident. But modern technology, like blind spot monitoring systems or forward collision warning systems, is instead designed to prevent accidents.
In some ways, these are very successful. Drivers have cameras, sensor packages and even technology that can help them drive the vehicle itself. For instance, some cars have automatic braking systems that detect an upcoming collision before the driver notices it, and the car can then apply the brakes to avoid the crash or reduce its severity.
This is not a perfect solution
While this technology is definitely helpful and modern cars are much safer than vintage cars, there are still two issues here. The first is that the technology itself simply is not perfect. Sensors can give inaccurate readings. A blind spot monitoring system may use lights, which could burn out. There are many different reasons why people still get into serious motor vehicle accidents, despite having cutting-edge technology in their cars.
But the bigger issue is that some auto safety experts believe the technology itself is making people complacent. They are relying on the technology and becoming worse drivers. For instance, distracted driving is on the rise, perhaps in part because drivers are willing to trust the vehicle to keep them safe while they look at their phones.
As a result, serious accidents continue to happen, even as safety tech improves. If you have suffered major injuries, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation.