The ABCs of ADAS: Tech That Keeps You Safe
The latest technology today isn’t just inside your smartphone. It’s also standard on many of the newest trucks on the highway, and it’s designed to prevent accidents and keep you safe.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane departure warnings and blind spot detection operate silently behind the scenes, allowing the driver to remain in total control of their vehicle. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Tech-Celerate Now Calculator estimates that trucks equipped with multiple ADAS technologies canreduce crashes by 70%.
Some of the Most Common ADAS Devices Include:
Automatic emergency braking (AEB), also called brake-assist technology. It uses sensors to identify an impending collision, then takes action to prevent a crash.
Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assistance. These technologies notify drivers (usually with a vibration or tug) when their vehicle drifts into another lane without a turn signal.
Blind spot detection creates a visual or audible warning (a light or beep) to let you know someone is driving in your vehicle’s blind spot.
Adaptive cruise control adjusts your vehicle’s speed based on the vehicle directly in front of you, ensuring you maintain a safe following distance at all times.
Electronic stability control applies brakes to individual wheels and reduces engine power to prevent an impending rollover or jackknife.
Steering systems, such as pull compensation and active steering dampening, give drivers better control behind the wheel.
Video monitoring systems. These include exterior-facing and driver-facing cameras that help improve training and provide evidence in the event of an accident.
3 Ways to Make ADAS Tools Work for You
If you haven’t yet driven a vehicle equipped with ADAS — or if you want to improve your use of driver safety technology — follow these tips:
1. Brush up on your knowledge. Websites like the FMCSA’s Tech-Celerate Now Video Library show how specific ADAS devices can help you avoid drifting into other lanes, enhance brake performance and improve driver awareness.
2. Make ADAS part of your pre-trip inspection. Each ADAS system varies in its capabilities and performance. Some provide basic warnings, while others are more sophisticated. Review your vehicle’s owner’s manual before you begin your route and learn the specific features of installed devices.
3. Understand the limitations. ADAS devices are an assistant. They are not a substitute for attentive driving. Always practice safe driving behaviors, including maintaining a space cushion, eliminating distractions, driving within the posted speed limit, and taking adequate rest breaks.