Backup crashes can lead to severe consequences for drivers in South Carolina. However, new technology may make it possible to significantly reduce the frequency of such accidents. For instance, the use of automatic rear braking can lead to a decrease of 62 percent of reported backup collisions. When combined with rearview cameras and other sensors, that number increases to 78 percent. Rearview cameras will be mandatory in all vehicles beginning in May 2019.
Currently, automatic rear braking is available in about 5 percent of vehicles. There is no plan to make it a required component in new cars in the near future. However, front automatic braking will be standard in all vehicles starting in 2022. The automatic system for rear brakes is currently intended to avoid collisions with objects, but it is thought that it will soon be designed to avoid collisions with people as well.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted tests on several vehicles that had a combination of rearview sensors and automatic brake features. The results of the tests were mixed as the 2017 Subaru Outback and Cadillac XT5 SUV earned the highest ratings. However, one vehicle didn’t stop when going backward toward a prop car that was at an angle. Other models involved in the testing did a good job at avoiding collisions or slowing the vehicle down.
A car accident victim may experience significant injuries in a collision. This may be true whether that person is a driver, passenger or pedestrian. Those who are hurt in a crash may be entitled to compensation for their current and future medical bills and lost wages. If a person dies in a motor vehicle accident, his or her family may pursue a wrongful death suit. An attorney may help crash victims obtain compensation.
