It’s scary that over 7.3 million car crashes occur each year in America.
This is why the auto industry has been prioritizing safety. Modern vehicles come equipped with all kinds of safety features that help keep the odds of accidents as low as possible.
Do you know the proper use of safety equipment in your vehicle? Read on to unpack five keys that can keep you, your passengers, and your vehicle safe while you travel.
1. Familiarize Yourself With Passive Safety Features
Passive car safety features are those that activate during a collision to lower the impact on occupants. Common examples include airbags and seat belts. Ensure that all passengers, front and rear, always wear seat belts since they’re the first line of defense in a collision.
Make sure seat belts are adjusted and fastened. You should also educate yourself on the specific airbag placements in your vehicle and follow recommended seating positions.
These features are designed to work together to provide maximum protection, so it’s crucial to use them as intended. You can learn more about the Mazda 3 Sedan interior features to stay educated.
2. Understand the Role of Active Safety Features
Active safety features aim to stop crashes from happening in the first place. These include the following technologies:
- Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
- Collision avoidance systems
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
Familiarize yourself with these features and understand how they operate. Active safety features are your allies in avoiding accidents, so make sure they’re always ready to step in when needed.
3. Keep Your Vehicle Maintained
A maintained vehicle is always a safer vehicle. These regular maintenance checks contribute to the performance of your car safety features:
- Brake inspections
- Tire rotations
- Fluid top-ups
Worn-out brake pads or low tire treads can compromise the effectiveness of both passive and active safety systems. This is why you need to stick to the recommended maintenance schedule.
4. Stay Informed About Automotive Advancements
The automotive industry is always evolving by introducing new safety technologies that can enhance your driving experience. You can keep track through the following:
- Reputable sources
- Manufacturer updates
- Safety organizations
As technology progresses, so does the potential for improved accident prevention and occupant protection. Being aware of these advancements allows you to make informed decisions about your vehicle and understand how to use new safety features well.
5. Practice Defensive Driving to Lower Accident Risk
Even the greatest safety features can’t keep reckless drivers safe. Defensive driving involves the following:
- Staying alert
- Avoiding distractions
- Obeying traffic rules
- Adapting to road conditions
By practicing defensive driving, you play a huge part in lowering the likelihood of accidents. This allows your vehicle’s safety features to serve as a last line of defense.
Remember that technology is designed to assist, not replace, the driver. Be proactive in anticipating potential hazards, and always prioritize safety on the road.
You Need to Know the Proper Use of Safety Equipment in Your Vehicle
The proper use of safety equipment in your vehicle involves a combination of understanding, maintenance, and responsible driving. By relying on this vehicle safety guide, you can make each trip more secure. Embracing these keys will not only protect you and your passengers but also contribute to creating a safer road environment for everyone.
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Wayne Probert is a senior reporter at Zobuz, covering state and national politics, and he is a grantee with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. Before joining Zobuz, he worked as a freelance journalist in Kentucky, having been published by dozens of outlets including NPR, the Center for Media.
