Oklahoma motorists may be interested to know that some modern safety add-ons for vehicles have been shown to help reduce crashes, especially backup accidents. A report states that rear automatic brakes can lower the chance for backup crashes by 62 percent. That number becomes 78 percent if the brakes are combined with rearview cameras and backup warning sensors.
In a study that tested the effectiveness of these three safety features, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave superior ratings to two automobile models — the 2017 Subaru Outback and Cadillac XT5 SUV. Four vehicles with the combined safety tech garnered advanced ratings for their ability to avoid collisions and significantly reduce vehicle speeds. However, one vehicle failed to brake automatically and collided with a dummy automobile parked at an angle.
This means that there is room for improvement. It should also be kept in mind that rear automatic brakes are an option for only 5 percent of new vehicle models. Though front automatic brakes are set to become standard on most cars by 2022, no such plan has been developed for rear brakes. However, more automakers are adding rear automatic braking onto their vehicles, and since May 2018, automakers are now mandated to include rearview cameras.
Like other types of car accidents, backup crashes can result in extensive property damage and even serious injuries. This is one reason why victims may want legal representation. A lawyer could hire professionals to gather proof and then proceed to negotiations, litigating if a settlement isn’t reached.