The Faults of Blind Spot Monitors and Why They Might Not Be as Safe As You Thought

‍Did you know that most new cars have a system that detects when another vehicle is in your blind spot and alerts you? This system called a blind spot monitor is considered a useful feature in a car.

However, your Glendale auto accident attorney thinks they aren’t as safe as other safety features. Read on to learn why.

What Is a Blind Spot Monitor?

A blind spot monitor is a system that alerts you when a car is in your blind spot. It is also a “lane keeping system” or “lane departure warning system.” It alerts you with an icon or beeping sound if you change lanes and a car is in your blind spot.

They are usually part of a car’s safety system. But you can also purchase aftermarket blind spot monitor systems and install them in your car.

Why Are Blind-Spot Monitors Important?

Blind-spot monitors are essential because they can alert you to cars you can’t see in your side mirrors. There are two major blind spots: the regular blind spot you may be familiar with and the larger “no-zone” blind spot.

The no-zone blind spot is often more prominent than the regular blind spot.

Blind spot monitors can help you avoid rear-ending the car in your blind spot. However, they will only alert you when there is a car in your blind spot and not when it’s next to your car.

This can be dangerous because you might get too close to the car next to you and hit it. Besides, they never detect obstacles in your path, like a person walking or a bike.

The Problem with Blind-Spot Monitors

Blind-spot monitors are not 100% accurate. While they are supposed to detect cars in your blind spot, some manufacturers have recalled their cars for false alerts.

They may fail to alert you if your car is too tall for them or if a vehicle is close to your car, but not in your blind spot. They are not a failsafe system either. So they are better used as a supplement to your regular mirrors lest you end up hit by a car in your blind spot.

Which Cars Have Blind Spot Monitors?

Almost all modern cars have them, but they might be called something different by the manufacturer. The most common names for blind-spot monitors are blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning systems.

The latter is standard on trucks, SUVs, and vans. However, you’re more likely to find blind spot monitoring on high-end cars than on budget-friendly vehicles.

How to Stay Safe With or Without a Blind Spot Monitor

Do not panic if you don’t have a car with a blind spot monitor. Avoid hitting cars in your blind spot by not getting too close. Also, always leave at least one car length between you and the car next to you.

And always check your regular mirrors before changing lanes and be wary of the no-zone blind spot.

Final Words: Don’t Rely on Blind Spot Monitors Alone

Blind-spot monitors are a helpful feature but do not rely on them alone. Always check your mirrors and leave at least one car length between you and the car next to you.

You must practice safe driving by checking lanes and looking for hazards like people walking while changing lanes. Do not panic if you are in an accident because of a faulty blind spot monitor.

Your auto accident lawyer in Glendale will be able to help you make a claim.