While most drivers do their best to drive safely on the roads, no one can control the actions of other motorists. One small mistake is all it takes to cause an accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 6.7 million collisions occurred on U.S. roadways in 2019. Car manufacturers recently began adding new safety features to automobiles in hopes of decreasing that number.
What is the difference between FCW and AEB systems?
Most new automobiles come equipped with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems. The FCW uses cameras installed outside the car to detect slowing vehicles and other obstacles. The computer calculates the vehicle’s speed and alerts the driver if it determines a possible collision.
If the driver does not apply the brakes immediately, the AEB system kicks in and automatically applies the brakes to slow the car.
Do AEBs and FCWs prevent accidents?
Vehicles with both FCW and AEB systems help prevent rear-end collisions. A report written by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and published by Consumer Reports declares that these systems cut the number of front-to-rear accidents in half.
Are there times when AEBs do not stop collisions?
While these systems intend to prevent accidents, drivers must still maintain control of the car. The AEB systems are not foolproof. The system has difficulty operating if a vehicle travels at high speed or the if mud or debris blocks the cameras.
Choosing a new vehicle with FCW and AEB systems can help keep drivers from causing rear-end collisions.
