Blind Spot Monitors: Necessary Safety Feature Or Unnecessary Expense?

Blind spot monitoring is a safety feature in vehicles that uses sensors, cameras, radar, and/or ultrasonic sensors to detect objects, vehicles, or people in a car's blind spot, providing either a visual or audio warning to the driver. While not currently required by law, blind spot monitoring is considered by many to be a valuable safety feature, especially in larger vehicles with bigger blind spots.

Blind-spot monitoring systems: how they work

Blind-spot monitoring systems (BSM) are designed to keep drivers aware of vehicles in the space just off the rear-quarter areas of their car, which can be hidden by improper mirror placement. BSMs use radar or ultrasonic sensors embedded in each side of the vehicle's rear bumper to detect approaching vehicles in adjacent lanes. More advanced BSMs also employ side-mounted cameras.

When a BSM detects a vehicle in the driver's blind spot, it issues a warning, typically in the form of a yellow light on the wing mirror or pillar between the front door and windshield. Some BSMs also provide an audible alert, especially if the driver indicates to merge into an occupied lane.

The most advanced BSMs can also provide steering assistance, using brake pressure or steering adjustments to nudge the driver away from lane markers and back towards the centre of the lane.

While BSMs are not yet mandatory, they are becoming increasingly common, with many new vehicles offering them as standard or optional features. After-market kits are also available for older cars.

Are blind-spot monitors worth the money?

Blind-spot monitoring is a safety feature that uses sensors, cameras, radar, and/or ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicles, objects, or people in a car's blind spot. It is designed to prevent accidents and increase a driver's awareness of their surroundings. While it is not a mandatory feature, it is becoming increasingly popular and is now available across the market, not just in high-end cars.

So, are blind-spot monitors worth the money? The answer depends on several factors. Firstly, consider the size of your car. If you drive a large vehicle with significant blind spots, blind-spot monitoring can be extremely beneficial. It is also useful if you frequently transport children, as it can be challenging to monitor the entire exterior of your car while driving. Additionally, if your vehicle has poor visibility due to small windows or obstructed views, blind-spot monitoring can provide valuable assistance.

Another factor to consider is your driving habits and skills. If you are a cautious driver who regularly practices responsible driving habits, you may find that blind-spot monitoring is not necessary. On the other hand, if you frequently drive in busy areas or have difficulty with lane changes, the added safety and peace of mind that blind-spot monitoring provides may be well worth the investment.

It is also important to note that while blind-spot monitoring can be a valuable tool, it is not a perfect system. It may not detect all objects or vehicles, and it is important to still practice safe driving habits and remain attentive while on the road.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in blind-spot monitoring depends on your personal preferences, driving habits, and the specific features of your vehicle. If you are considering adding blind-spot monitoring, it is recommended to test drive a car equipped with the monitors to determine if it is a worthwhile addition for you.

The future of blind-spot monitoring

Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) is an increasingly popular technology that enhances road safety by providing drivers with an additional layer of awareness. While it is not yet required by law, BSM is becoming more and more common in vehicles across different price ranges.

Integration with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): BSM is expected to become increasingly integrated with other ADAS features such as lane departure warning systems and adaptive cruise control. This integration will provide drivers with a comprehensive suite of safety functionalities, enhancing overall driving safety.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: The incorporation of AI and machine learning algorithms will improve the accuracy of BSM systems in detecting and classifying objects in blind spots. This will reduce false alarms and improve overall system performance, making the technology more reliable and trustworthy.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication (V2V): V2V communication technology enables vehicles to exchange information about their positions and movements. By incorporating V2V, blind-spot monitoring systems will become even more effective, especially in complex traffic scenarios. This technology enhances the system's ability to anticipate and respond to potential hazards.

Wider Adoption in Cheaper Vehicles: Blind-spot monitoring technology is likely to be used in cheaper cars and models in the future. As the technology becomes more widely adopted, manufacturers will find ways to produce it at a lower cost, making it accessible to a broader range of consumers. Government regulations and safety standards may also play a role in encouraging the inclusion of BSM as a standard feature.

Enhanced Safety and Accident Reduction: With continuous advancements, blind-spot monitoring systems will further improve road safety and save lives. These systems will become more sophisticated in detecting and alerting drivers to potential hazards, reducing the number of accidents caused by lane changes and limited visibility.

Improved Driver Awareness and Experience: BSM systems will contribute to enhancing driver awareness of their surroundings, reducing the likelihood of collisions. This increased awareness will lead to a more relaxed and confident driving experience, benefiting both the driver and their passengers.

In conclusion, blind-spot monitoring technology is evolving rapidly, and its future integration in vehicles will bring significant benefits to road safety. With advancements in sensor technology, AI integration, and improved system accuracy, drivers can expect a more secure and stress-free driving experience.

How to get the most out of a blind-spot monitoring system

Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) is an active driver aid/safety device that can prevent accidents and increase your driving awareness. It is especially useful for larger vehicles with bigger blind spots.

• Wipe off the cameras: Ensure the cameras and sensors are free of dust, mud, snow, and anything else that might interfere with their proper functioning.
• Check your car manual: Consult your owner's manual for specifics on engaging and setting up your active driver aids.
• Know the system's limitations: Be aware of any limitations your particular system may have. Not every BSM system operates the same. Some may only function at certain speeds, and they don't always recognize pedestrians, cyclists, and pets.
• Use your eyes: Before travelling in reverse, always double-check with your own eyes what is behind you.
• Use your mirrors: Nothing replaces having your outboard mirrors properly aimed and checking them often.
• Pay attention to the alerts: If your system provides alerts, be sure to pay attention to them. If you are a particularly price-conscious buyer, you may scoff at the tech, but if you pay attention to the audible or visual warnings, they can minimize your chances of merging into another vehicle.

While blind-spot monitoring is not yet mandatory, it is a useful feature that can increase your confidence and relieve some of the stress of driving in close quarters.

Blind-spot monitoring systems and driver safety

Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) is an active driver aid that helps prevent accidents and enhances driving safety. It is particularly useful when changing lanes or merging, as it can detect vehicles in a car's blind spots, which are areas blocked by the car's bodywork or areas that cannot be seen using mirrors. BSM uses sensors, cameras, radar, or ultrasonic sensors to identify objects, vehicles, or people in a car's blind spots and provides either a visual, verbal, or audible warning to the driver. Some advanced systems also offer steering or braking assistance to avoid collisions actively.

The benefits of BSM include increased driving awareness, enhanced driver and passenger safety, and reduced stress while driving in close quarters. The system is especially useful for larger vehicles, which tend to have bigger blind spots. Additionally, BSM is valuable when reversing in parking lots, as it can detect vehicles, objects, or pedestrians and help prevent accidents.

While BSM was initially introduced in premium and luxury cars, it has now become more affordable and widely available in economy cars and lower-priced models. However, it is not yet mandatory, and new vehicles are not required to have BSM. When deciding whether to include BSM in your vehicle, consider factors such as the size of your car, the efficiency of its visibility, and your personal preference after testing the system.

To maximise the effectiveness of BSM, it is important to keep the cameras and sensors clean and free of dust, mud, or snow. It is also essential to refer to the owner's manual to understand the specific features and limitations of your BSM system. While BSM is a valuable safety feature, it should be used in conjunction with responsible driving habits and proper mirror adjustment.

In summary, blind-spot monitoring systems significantly enhance driver safety by providing early warnings and, in some cases, active collision avoidance assistance. They are particularly useful for larger vehicles and when reversing in busy areas. While not yet mandatory, BSM is becoming increasingly popular and affordable across different vehicle segments.

Frequently asked questions