Electronic stability control reduces the risk of rollover crashes, such as are common with SUVs.
a)
True
b)
False
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: a) True
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is a safety feature that helps prevent vehicles from losing control, particularly during extreme steering maneuvers or when there is a risk of skidding. The system uses sensors to detect when the vehicle’s traction is compromised and applies braking to individual wheels to help steer the vehicle back onto its intended path.
This system is especially effective in reducing the risk of rollover crashes, which are more common with vehicles like SUVs. The high center of gravity in SUVs makes them more prone to tipping over, especially during sharp turns or when driving on slippery surfaces. ESC helps mitigate this risk by automatically intervening to prevent the vehicle from sliding sideways or rolling over.
For instance, if a driver attempts to turn too sharply or loses control due to wet or icy conditions, the ESC system can apply brakes to specific wheels to stabilize the vehicle and prevent a rollover. By helping to maintain the vehicle’s stability and control, ESC reduces the chances of an accident.
While ESC does not eliminate the risk of rollovers entirely, it significantly lowers the likelihood, especially in situations where a loss of control could lead to a crash. Because of its effectiveness in preventing rollover crashes, ESC has become a standard feature in most modern vehicles, including SUVs. As a result, its presence has contributed to a reduction in the number of fatalities and serious injuries caused by rollover accidents.