Loss of the ability to drive independently is a trigger for many to slide into cognitive decline and degradation of health...
Building upon more than a decade of research on older driver safety, The Hartford and MIT AgeLab worked with a panel of leading experts in driving, aging and technology to conduct an in-depth study that involved the review of 25 new technologies and identification of the top ten that can benefit mature drivers. The features that rank the highest include*:
1. Smart headlights: adjust the range and intensity of light based on the distance of traffic and to reduce glare and improve night vision
2. Emergency response systems: offer quick assistance to drivers in the case of a medical emergency or collision, often allowing emergency personnel to get to the scene more quickly
3. Reverse monitoring systems: warn of objects to the rear of the vehicle to help drivers judge distances and back up safely, and helps drivers with reduced flexibility
4. Blind spot warning systems: warn drivers of objects in blind spots, especially while changing lanes and parking, and helps those with limited range of motion
5. Lane departure warning: monitors the vehicle's position and warns the driver if the vehicle deviates outside the lane, helping drivers stay in their lane
6. Vehicle stability control: helps to automatically bring the vehicle back in the intended line of travel, particularly in situations where the driver underestimates the angle of a curve or experiences weather effects, and reduces the likelihood of a crash.........