Rear Crash Prevention Technology on the Rise

Many new vehicles are equipped with rear-collision avoidance packages to help reduce accidents commonly referred to as fender benders. How effective are these packages at preventing rear collisions? According to a new study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), cars equipped with these features are 78 percent less likely to be involved in rear collisions.

Rear-End Collision Avoidance Packages  

Car manufacturers continue to develop even more effective and cost efficient rear-end collision technology with each new car model. Some of the most common features of rear-collision avoidance packages include:

• Rearview cameras
• Automatic braking systems, including automatic emergency braking
• Rear parking sensors
• Rear cross-traffic warning (RCTW) systems

Effectiveness of Rear-Collision Avoidance Features

Research demonstrates that these features successfully reduce the likelihood of a rear-end collision. Vehicles equipped with just rearview cameras and rear parking sensors are involved in 42 percent fewer rear-end collisions. The presence of a Rear Cross Traffic Warning system alone can reduce the risks of being involved in a rear-end crash by 20 percent.

As part of its study, the IIHS also rated existing rear automatic braking technology on six vehicles. In the study, which involved rear-end collisions with moving vehicles, stationery vehicles, and a fixed pole, both the Cadillac XT5 and Subaru Outback received top Superior Ratings. Advanced ratings were given to the BMW 5 Series, Infiniti QX60, Jeep Cherokee, and Toyota Prius, all equipped with optional rear-collision avoidance technology. Vehicles equipped only with parking sensors or RCTW systems received a basic rating.

Not all rear crash safety technologies are widely available or affordable to every driver, but safety advocates are hoping to change that. By May 2018, all new models must be equipped with rearview cameras. With design changes reducing rearward visibility in new car models, the compulsory inclusion of rearview cameras is coming just in time.

The Aftermath of Rear-End Collisions

While some fender benders result in minor damage to the involved cars, this is often not the case. The costs of replacing a car’s bumper cover, tailgate, trim, and other damaged parts often cost between $2,000 to $4,000. Other catastrophic injuries have occurred from cars backing out of driveways. Small children who play in driveways without being noticed are at a significant risk as these types of rear collisions often result in the fatality of the child.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Represent Individuals Injured in Rear-Collision Car Accidents

If you or your loved one has been injured in a car accident, including rear-end collisions, you may be entitled to compensation to help pay for the costs of medical expenses, rehabilitation, loss wages, and other damages. At DiTomaso Law, our experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyers can assist you during this tough time. Our offices are conveniently located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to serve our clients throughout the surrounding areas. To schedule a free confidential consultation, call us today at 856-414-0010 or submit an online inquiry form.