Staying Focused
Some new safety features work as a co-pilot to help you stay focused on the task of driving:
X
Voice Activated Systems understand certain
vocal commands by using smart computer
software connected to microphones within
your vehicle. You can speak vehicle instructions
such as "turn off the radio" or "set the
temperature to 75 degrees." This allows you to
safely keep your hands on the wheel and eyes
on the road.
X
Head Up Displays (HUD) are another
technology that can help you keep your eyes up
on the road while driving. System data, alerts,
and navigation information appear on your
vehicle's windshield so you don't have to look
down at the instrument panel.
A QUICK TOUR OF VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES
Safety features may go by different names in the market, so we will refer to them in
generic terms and give you a high-level overview of how they generally work. Some of
these features, like backup cameras, come standard with many vehicles, while others are
available at an extra cost. Some work automatically in the background and require nothing
from you. Others you need to turn on to use. Make sure you understand how they alert
you so you can react appropriately. The types of alerts to expect are:
X
AUDIO: A beep or sharp tone that may get louder or sound more frequently as the
warning gets stronger.
X
VISUAL: An icon on the dashboard or mirrors that may light up, blink, and even
change colors as the warning gets stronger.
X
TACTILE: A vibration in the steering wheel or driver's seat.
www.aarp.org/drive Smart Driver Participant Guidebook 27
ARE WE READY TO DRIVE?
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