ADAS

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are now in almost all cars. Because most vehicle accidents occur due to human error, ADAS provide electronic aids to help prevent these.

Seatbelts were arguably the first such system. Nowadays, a computer monitor/controller helps the driver with safe speed, weather detection, grip, cornering power, sign recognition, navigation, audible warnings, spacing, impact protection, lane-keeping, tyre failures, parking, and even “bringing you to a stop in a safe place” if you become unconscious.

ADAS typically operates through a combination of sensors including ultrasonic, LIDAR (light detection and ranging) plus RADAR, and cameras. Sensors are in the bumpers, windscreen, mirrors, doors, or even badges.

My car is typical, and has about 30 of these systems. (When I learned to drive, dad's Volvo had only 1). Having them should keep you safer, but KNOWING you have them might make you rely on them so concentrating less.

Remember, the key is in the name: ADAS are to assist you, not do the job for you ... or make the final decision!