Could New Technology End Auto Pedestrian Accidents?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2013 over 150,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency rooms for injuries caused by auto pedestrian collisions, and over 4,700 pedestrians were killed in these accidents. The frequency and severity of auto pedestrian accidents inspired car manufacturers to find new technologies to keep everyone on the road safe, and one manufacturer has widely instituted new technology that might bring an end to auto pedestrian accidents.
Sensors vs. Cameras
Many cars utilize sensor technology to scan the road for oncoming or surrounding vehicles. When a sensor detects another object or car, the brakes are automatically applied. While this type of technology is a huge stride forward in car safety, it only works with large objects, like other cars.
One car manufacturer turned away from using lasers and instead began using camera technology to detect objects and/or people. More than one million cars manufactured by Subaru have been sold containing EyeSight Driver-Assist technology. Subaru’s EyeSight works by relying solely on cameras that can recognize more dangers than sensors alone.
Studies conducted by Japan’s Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis show EyeSight resulted in 61% fewer auto pedestrian accidents. In addition to preventing auto pedestrian accidents, EyeSight also resulted in 84% fewer rear-end collisions.
What This Means For Drivers
While EyeSight technology has the potential to save thousands of lives and prevent thousands of injuries each year, technology like this also has another benefit: lower insurance premiums. With a decreased likelihood of accidents, insurance rates for Americans could actually decrease.
However, it will be some time before technology like EyeSight becomes a common feature in all cars. In the meantime, drivers are still expected to exercise caution to avoid auto pedestrian collisions.
