The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are constantly updating their safety testing protocols to keep up with changes in technology and the auto industry. Recently, the IIHS updated its side-crash tests with greater impact forces, and now, the NHTSA is considering a toughening of its pedestrian crash testing.
The NHTSA has said that the updates would measure pedestrian protection and detection and has asked for public comment on the matter. With more pedestrians dying on our roads, it is clear that something needs to be done. In the first six months of last year alone, 3,434 people were killed – almost 19 deaths per day.
The IIHS already has a test for day- and nighttime pedestrian crash prevention, so it’s not surprising to see the NHTSA add the criteria to its list. NHTSA officials have said that the organization is working on rules to make automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and other features mandatory for new vehicles. The NHTSA noted that 20 automakers have committed to equipping at least 95 percent of cars and trucks with these features, but more needs to be done.
The IIHS’ recent updates knocked several vehicles out of contention for a Top Safety Pick award, so we’ll likely see a similar shift when the NHTSA implements these proposed changes. Despite their sometimes annoying alerts, advanced driver aids have been proven to save lives, so it’s time for the rules to change.
Pedestrian safety is a major concern on our roads today. With more and more people walking or cycling to work, school, or for leisure, it is important that we take steps to protect them. The NHTSA’s proposed changes to its pedestrian crash testing will help to ensure that new vehicles are equipped with the latest safety features to protect pedestrians.
Automatic emergency braking is one of the most important safety features for protecting pedestrians. This technology uses sensors to detect when a pedestrian is in the path of a vehicle and automatically applies the brakes to prevent a collision. Pedestrian detection is another important feature that can help to prevent accidents. This technology uses cameras and sensors to detect pedestrians and alert the driver if they are in danger of hitting someone.
Other safety features that can help to protect pedestrians include lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and rearview cameras. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if they are drifting out of their lane, while blind spot detection warns them if there is a vehicle or pedestrian in their blind spot. Rearview cameras provide a clear view of what is behind the vehicle, making it easier for drivers to see pedestrians and other obstacles.
In addition to these safety features, it is also important that drivers are aware of their surroundings and take steps to avoid accidents. This means slowing down in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present, such as school zones, crosswalks, and residential areas. It also means being alert and focused on the road, avoiding distractions such as cell phones or other electronic devices.
Pedestrian safety is everyone’s responsibility. By working together to promote safe driving habits and by equipping new vehicles with the latest safety features, we can help to reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities on our roads. The NHTSA’s proposed changes to its pedestrian crash testing are an important step in this direction, and we should all support them.
