Modern vehicles offer a range of advanced safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe. Whether you’re driving through bustling city streets or remote outback roads, understanding the essential safety features in today’s cars is crucial for any Australian driver. In this article, we’ll look at seven key safety features that can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
1. Seat Belts
Seat belts are one of the most basic yet important safety features in any vehicle. Although the design hasn’t changed much over the years, advances in materials have made them even stronger and more reliable.
- Seat belts help secure you in place during an accident, preventing serious injuries.
- Newer cars come with features like seat belt pretensioners, which automatically tighten the belt during a crash to reduce movement.
- Wearing a seat belt is legally required in Australia and remains one of the simplest ways to protect yourself while driving.
2. Tyres
Your tyres are the only part of the car that touches the road, making them a key safety component. Worn or poorly maintained tyres can lead to accidents, especially on wet or slippery surfaces.
- Regularly check your tyre pressure and tread depth to ensure they meet safety standards.
- In Australia, a growing market of second-hand tyres from overseas presents a significant safety risk. Up to 30% of these tyres may not be roadworthy.
- For peace of mind, it’s better to invest in new tyres. They offer better grip and handling, especially in emergency situations.
3. Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for safe driving, particularly at night or in bad weather. Both interior and exterior lights help ensure you can see and be seen by other drivers.
- Headlights should be cleaned regularly to avoid reduced visibility. Dirty or fogged-up lenses can cut visibility by up to 80%.
- Make sure your brake lights, indicators, and reverse lights are functioning properly to communicate effectively with other drivers.
- In rural areas or the outback, consider adding extra lighting like fog lights or auxiliary lights to improve visibility on dark, unlit roads.
4. Child Restraints
Child safety is a top priority, and in Australia, the law requires children under the age of seven to use a proper child restraint. These restraints can drastically reduce the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Choose a restraint that is appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height. Ensure it meets Australian safety standards.
- Correct installation is crucial. Many parents opt for professional installation services to ensure the seat is fitted securely.
- Child restraints can include capsules, forward-facing seats, or booster seats depending on the age and size of your child.
5. Braking System
Brakes are perhaps the most vital safety feature in any car. Modern cars are equipped with advanced braking systems like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance safety.
- ABS prevents the wheels from locking during sudden braking, allowing you to maintain control of the car, especially on wet roads.
- In older vehicles without ABS, the risk of skidding or losing control is higher during emergency stops.
- Regular brake inspections are important. Make sure your brake pads, discs, and fluid are checked routinely, especially before long drives.
6. Airbags
Airbags provide critical protection in the event of a collision. They have become standard in nearly all modern cars, cushioning the impact for the driver and passengers during a crash.
- Most modern vehicles feature multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing protection from various angles.
- Airbags work in conjunction with seat belts to reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a crash.
- Regular vehicle servicing should include checks on the airbag system to ensure its functioning properly. If your airbag warning light is on, get it checked immediately.
7. Bull Bars
Bull bars are commonly seen on vehicles in rural Australia, particularly where kangaroos and other wildlife pose a risk. However, they may not be necessary for city driving and can even be a hazard to pedestrians in urban environments.
- Bull bars provide protection during an animal strike, which is particularly useful for drivers in rural or remote areas.
- In urban settings, they can increase the risk of injury to pedestrians during collisions.
- If your vehicle is primarily used in the city, reconsider whether a bull bar is necessary, as it may do more harm than good.
Conclusion
Australian drivers have access to a wide range of safety features that enhance protection for both drivers and passengers. From seat belts to ABS, airbags, and tyres, each of these components plays a critical role in reducing risks on the road.
Whether you’re driving in the city or travelling in rural areas, maintaining these safety features is essential. Regular inspections and using quality parts and services can help keep you safe, no matter where you drive. If you’re unsure about the condition of your car’s safety systems, a mobile mechanic can help with thorough safety checks and repairs, giving you peace of mind every time you hit the road.
