With the increasing rate of deaths caused by car accidents, this is often linked to irresponsible drivers who seem to neglect even the most basic guidelines on driving. Nonetheless, they even forget, sometimes intentionally, the basic features of their cars and choose to drive recklessly. In this article, we aim to remind all drivers out there of the basic safety features of a car and why it’s a must to memorize them.
Seatbelts
Made to avoid the passengers from flying off the car – just kidding. Well, seat belts were designed to prevent injuries and yes, from being ejected out of the vehicle during a high-speed collision. Seat belts have saved many lives already. So, do us a favor – strap that belt on.
Airbags
Upon moderate to severe impact, your airbags will automatically deploy within a blink of an eye. This safety feature will provide adequate protection for all passengers. Unknown to many, airbags are not only limited to the front passengers. Most vehicles nowadays would have airbags that would deploy out of the pillars of your vehicle – this is known as the curtain (or side) airbags which will also protect you in case the collision will be coming from either side. Gone are the days where vehicles are not equipped with this most basic safety feature.
Lights
Believe it or not, vehicle lights take part in ensuring that both you and the other vehicles around you are safe. Why? Because it involves your brake lights, headlights, and signal light. So, make sure to have spare bulbs inside your car or better to have them regularly checked to avoid any inconvenience. Remember, a faulty or burned-out bulb can get you a citation from your local traffic police.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is not only used to protect the screen of your smartphones, but it also protects you from harmful pieces in an unfortunate event where either your windshield, windows, or rear glass breaks. What this basically does is to make sure that the glass will break into the laminated film to ensure that no shards of glass will be spread inside the vehicle, hence, protecting the driver and its passengers from further injury.
Anti-lock Braking System
ABS plays a very vital role for every vehicle. This ensures that your vehicle will not slide or skid down the road due to the wheels locking when you suddenly step hard on the brakes. This feature gives the driver full control of the vehicle and the situation. For first-time car owners, understanding what is term life insurance and having an ABS are two things to start with. ABS has been tested and proven in a way that I, personally will not purchase a vehicle without it.
Owning and driving a vehicle comes with the responsibility of making sure that it safe for both you, your passengers, and the other people you are sharing the road with. While these safety features are good to have, there are a lot more superior features that can make your driving experience extra safe. However, do take note that these features are not built to 100% ensure a safe journey all the time. Having the presence of mind, quick driving reflexes, and a lengthy driving experience under your belt is still something you can heavily rely on and count on.
After all, these systems are computer-based and will never have the thinking ability that we humans all have. So, remember to strap your seat belt on, be well-rested, make sure your vehicle is running in great condition, and always keep your eyes on the road with both hands on the steering wheel. Making sure to get to your destination quickly and safely should and will always be the end goal of everyone driving. Do us a favor and drive safely!