Pros and Cons of Technology in Cars

Mixing cutting edge technology with the automobile industry sounds futuristic and safe, but there are some potential downsides. While some of these features are proven to help create a safer driving experience, others may unintentionally lead to accidents by encouraging sub par driving practices.

What Type of Technology Are Being Put in Cars? 

• Touch screen dashboards: we often see these in Teslas. Large, touch screen dashboards are added to cars for aesthetic purposes, as well as navigational usability.
• Blind spot warning systems: these systems alert you via visual flashing lights on your rear view mirror, a beeping sound, or both, when a vehicle is in your blind spot.
• Electronic stability control (ESC): can automatically break for you in the event a vehicle stops short
• Navigation Systems (GPS): GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Gone are the days of Mapquest, with many cars either equipped with their own GPS, or the ability to utilize your smartphones to help you navigate to your destination.
• Backup Cameras
• Bluetooth connection: allows drivers to pair their smartphones with their car for personalized music choices, hands free calls, and many other functions.

What Are The Positives of Technology in Cars?

Features like GPS and other navigational support may help drivers prevent confused, sporadic movements on the road, and help them navigate to their destination safely. Also, blind spot warning systems provide additional security while driving. These motion detectors give drivers forewarning if there is a vehicle in their blind spot, since some drivers forget to turn their heads before a lane change – this can be life saving.

Furthermore, technology that actually controls the car such as electronic stability control that breaks for you, can have positive outcomes on driving by helping avoid accidents all together.

These technological additions are meant to create a better and safer user experience while driving, but sometimes they create even more distraction while on the road.

What Are The Negatives? 

Some possible drawbacks for technology in cars include Bluetooth connection which can free up your hands and eyes from focusing on a call, but your mind is still distracted by the contents of the call. Unfortunately, this can result in distracted driving since mentally you are not totally focused on the road. Car accident attorneys like the team at Harting Simkins & Ryan have seen countless accidents involving distracted driving, so be careful on the road.

Additionally, blind spot warning systems are oftentimes a great safety feature, but be sure that you still check your blind spot in case of technology malfunction is advised.

Furthermore, backup cameras can be a bit dangerous for pedestrians if there are no warning systems in the car. Oftentimes backup cameras are used in lieu of turning one’s head and checking if there are any people or vehicles coming up, so this can pose a risk. Pedestrian injuries are more common than you may think, so be sure to take the extra time and manually check behind your car.