Ford’s 2024 Mustang: New Technology Assists with Accident Prevention

Photo Source: Ford

Ford’s latest driver assistance feature is dubbed Exit Warning, and it is meant to protect vulnerable road users such as scooter riders, cyclists, and even pedestrians. The technology will be available to buyers in the summer of the 2023 model year on all iterations of the all-new 2024 Mustang. The way the technology functions is relatively straightforward. As such, if the system detects a so-called vulnerable road user approaching the 2024 Mustang, it will warn the driver before they get the opportunity to open the door. 

A Notice from the Car

To clarify, while the vehicle is in park, the Exit Warning system will rely on radar sensors positioned at the rear to identify road users traveling at least four miles per hour, which is approximately one-third the speed of the average cyclist. If a vulnerable individual is detected and the system believes they could be struck by the car’s door, Exit Warning will send the driver visual and audio alerts broadcast through Ford SYNC using the side mirror as well as the instrument cluster. 

Moreover, the system will remain active for up to three minutes after the ignition is switched off, and this includes the visual and audio alerts in the cluster and on the touchscreen display unit. Since Exit Warning depends on rear radar, it is only available on Mustang trims with applicable driver-assist systems. Granted, while the feature may not make much sense to rural drivers, anyone who has spent time in the city–either as a cyclist or a driver–knows the danger is real on streets brimming with parallel-parked cars. 

The Brand’s Message to Drivers

That said, the Blue Oval is adamant in reminding consumers that all driver assist features are supplemental and should not replace a driver’s actual judgment, attention, and control of the automobile. In short, the safest way to drive is to remain vigilant at all times. As a matter of fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), cycling accidents are most common between June and September, which means the company could not have selected a better time to reveal this technology and remind drivers to watch out for vulnerable road users – not just on the move, but also while stationary.

Accidents that can now be Avoided

Here is a statistic worth noting: roughly one in ten incidents involving cars and bicycles take place because of a door being opened in the path of an oncoming cyclist. These types of accidents can produce minor and major injuries, and in rare cases, even fatalities. Indeed, imagine if a cyclist is not wearing a helmet and then they are sent plummeting to the ground because a driver neglected to check the rearview mirror before opening the door. 

Even with a helmet and full protective gear, such impacts can be highly perilous. It is never known how the individual is going to land once they begin falling, nor exactly what objects they are going to collide with on their way down. As for why these types of accidents continue to occur, on the one hand, there are inattentive drivers at fault. However, cyclists have been known to travel in very close proximity to cars that are parked on the side of the road, as bicycle lanes are not always readily available. 

Going forward though, it is good to know that the 2024 Ford Mustang will be keeping an eye out for vulnerable road users. If you approve of the automaker’s latest feature, please come visit NYE Ford, where our serviceable sales team can help you determine which automobile is right for you. Any financial help, needs, or suggestions can be dealt with, as we are here to make paying for a vehicle easier.