Automakers can’t catch a break. On one hand, they like to brag about all of the neat electronic gadgets that allow drivers to issue voice commands to make calls, view a message screen, or listen to text messages. On the other hand, all of these activities are distracting you while you are supposed to be involved in the serious business of driving.
Ford is one of the worst offenders with its new Sync Communications System, so it makes sense that the Ford Motor Company on Thursday, October 27, announced it will make new safety features available in the 2013 Ford Explorer.
According to the Detroit Free Press, a “Do Not Disturb” feature will block calls coming into the car’s hands-free system. Also, parents will be able to cap the speed their children drive at 65 mph. No seat belt on? The driver will not be able to access the audio system. If a driver is drifting outside of his or her lane, the 2013 Ford Explorer will send a vibration through the steering wheel to wake up the driver.
Consumer Reports noted that all of this good news for parents was issued during Teen Safe Driving Week.
Distracted Driving
Approximately 20 percent of auto accidents in 2009 involved some form of distracted driving, which can include not only cell phone use, but changing a radio station, reaching for something in the back seat, texting, even arguing with someone in the car. The age group with the greatest number of distracted drivers falls under the age of 20.
The Florida personal injury attorneys of Farah & Farah reminds parents that auto accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for young people, so Ford should be applauded for reacting to the criticism and making their new vehicles even safer. However, if the new Explorer safety features do not work or are not installed properly, it may become a safety hazard for drivers and the manufacturer may be held liable. The auto product liability attorneys in Florida of Farah & Farah can help if you have been injured due to a device or auto part that is defective on a car. Please call (800) 533-3555 for a free consultation.
Source: http://www.distraction.gov/stats-and-facts/; http://www.fairwarning.org/2011/10/hit-by-criticism-ford-to-add-electronic-safety-features-for-explorer-models/http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/10/out-of-sync-ford-broadens-in-car-access-to-texting.html
