We often hear about how technology makes driving more dangerous today. Simply put: Technology tempts people to multi-task when they drive. Instead of focusing on the road, many drivers glance down at their phones to make a call, send a text or sift through their social media networks.

However, technology can also make driving safer. Today, many new and used cars on South Carolina roads feature automatic braking systems and other crash-avoidance features. In response to consumer demand for safe cars, manufacturers focus on expanding and improving safety systems.

Let’s look at five examples of current technology that can help to prevent car accidents in South Carolina:

Automatic Braking Systems

Some people refer to this safety feature as an automatic emergency braking (AEB) system. The system has a sensor that detects crash situations, alerts the driver and automatically brakes if the driver is too slow to react. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that 10 U.S. automakers have vowed to install AEB systems as a standard feature in all new cars by 2022.

Backup Cameras

This system features a rear-mounted camera and a dashboard monitor. It gives drivers an up-close view of the car’s rear area, including blind spots. Several years ago, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a report which indicated that backup cameras reduce the risk of “backover” collisions by as much as 46 percent. However, drivers should still use their mirrors and look over their shoulder when they back out of driveways or parking spots.

Blind Spot Monitoring

As AutoTrader.com describes, blind spot monitors typically monitor traffic on both sides of the car, including spots that a driver may otherwise be unable see. If a car enters a blind spot, the system alerts the driver. You once found this feature only on large tractor-trailer combinations. Today, however, you can now order aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems for your passenger car.

Emergency Communications

GM first introduced OnStar in 1996. Since that time, many other competitors have entered the market. These in-car communications systems allow drivers to talk with operators, get roadside assistance and access many other types of emergency services.

Smartphone Apps

Driver safety technology doesn’t have to be attached to your car. Sometimes, you can do a lot with an app. With many apps, the benefit lies in what they prevent you from doing – like texting while driving.

For example, Hum and Zubie provide essentially the same emergency assistance as OnStar. Other apps lock out drivers from using cell phones (and are especially popular among the parents of teen drivers). You can even find apps that monitor vehicle diagnostics and check engine lights and track movements, mileage and speed.

As you can see, you can select from plenty of auto safety technology options. Still, technology cannot prevent all wrecks from happening. Sometimes, negligent drivers will cause devastating damage regardless of how safe people drive or how much protection their car provides.

Since 1968, Joye Law Firm has represented people in The Lowcountry and throughout South Carolina who were seriously injured in car accidents. If a negligent driver harmed you or your loved one, contact us today. We can discuss your case in a free consultation.

About the Author

Since 1968, the South Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys of Joye Law Firm have been committed to securing compensation for accident and injury victims. Our compassionate and dedicated lawyers have over 300 years of combined litigation experience, and many of them have been recognized as South Carolina Super Lawyers. For many years, our South Carolina personal injury law firm has been listed with an AV rating in the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell legal directory.

Recent Blog Post
2026 Best Lawyers in America Joye Law Firm attorneys included for selection
Multiple Attorneys at Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers Included in The Best Lawyers in America

We are proud to share that 19 attorneys from Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers have been selected for inclusion in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®. Additionally, the firm’s Managing Partner,…

Intersection Accidents and Injuries in South Carolina
How Our Attorneys Handle a Liberty Mutual Claim

After an accident, getting the insurance company to pay what’s fair can be more frustrating than the crash itself. That’s especially true when dealing with a Liberty Mutual claim. Liberty Mutual is one of the country’s largest auto insurance companies,…

A car crash on the street with visibly damaged vehicles.
How Our Attorneys Handle a Progressive Claim

Progressive is one of the largest auto insurers in the country, known for quick claim turnarounds. But that speed doesn’t always work in your favor. Their adjusters are trained to limit payouts and close files fast. If you’re dealing with…

Scenes from Joye Law Firm's Columbia office in May of 2024.
How Our Attorneys Handle GEICO Car Accident Claims

That friendly gecko on GEICO’s commercials? He isn’t on your side after a car crash, but we are. With over 11% of market share, GEICO, or the Government Employees Insurance Company, handles thousands of accident claims each year. But that…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News
ESPN Radio logo