IIHS Dubs Rear Automatic Braking as a “Standout Feature” in Research on the Impact of Crash Avoidance Technology Systems. In its latest tech roundup, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave props to rear automatic braking for its effectiveness in reducing the severity and frequency of reverse rear-end accidents. The IIHS compared this latest technology with other driver assistance systems in its compilation of research on the impact of crash avoidance technologies.
Effectiveness of Rear Automatic Braking Systems
The IIHS studied the effectiveness of rear automatic braking systems. These systems often include ultrasonic sensors and short-range radar systems that help drivers avoid colliding with people or objects behind them when backing up. Beeps or seat vibrations usually alert motorists about impending hazards. Some systems automatically brake if drivers do not respond quickly enough.
In its study, the IIHS compared vehicles that did and did not have rear automatic braking systems to examine their effectiveness. Specifically, it studied 2015 – 2018 Subaru vehicles and 2014 – 2015 General Motors vehicles. The IIHS found these systems helped reduce property damage claims by 28 percent. Furthermore, the IIHS found that rear automatic braking could help prevent up to 17 percent of all low-speed back-up collisions that involve property damage claims of less than $2,000. From 2010 to 2017, $8 billion in claims were filed for just these types of claims alone, so a 17 percent reduction could save auto insurance companies and their insured millions of dollars.
As part of the study, the IIHS also evaluated the effectiveness of rear automatic braking systems in comparison to other driver assistance systems, including parking sensors and rear backup cameras. Those technologies were only found to be 5 percent effective in reducing property damage claims.
Today’s modern vehicles may come equipped with various types of crash avoidance technologies and driver assistance systems, such as:
- Forward collision warning systems
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian automatic emergency braking
- Rear automatic emergency brakes
- Backup camera systems
- Lane departure warning systems
- Blind spot detection systems
These technologies have helped reduce the frequency and severity of car accidents in Georgia and throughout the nation. However, they are no substitute for safe driving.
Involved in an Accident? Call Our Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
While rear automatic braking may help reduce the number of car crashes, it will not prevent all of them. If you were involved in a car accident in Georgia, Spaulding Injury Law is here to help. We are real lawyers helping real people just like you who were hurt in a car accident through no fault of their own. You can discuss your claim during a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Georgia car accident attorney. Call or contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your car accident case.
