In most urban settings, roadside parking is common practice instead of utilizing parking lots. While this is convenient for drivers, it poses risks for pedestrians who are vulnerable to being struck by car doors as they open. To mitigate this danger, Volkswagen has developed an Exit Warning System designed to decrease the risk of door-opening accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists.
The Dangers of Dooring
Dooring refers to the unfortunate scenario of a car door colliding with a pedestrian. Pedestrians, lacking the protective cover of a vehicle, face significant risks of sustaining severe internal injuries, head trauma, and other harmful effects. Cyclists, in particular, face higher risks due to their greater speed when encountering such accidents.
Moreover, cyclists may find it challenging to break their fall, potentially escalating the severity of their injuries. While pedestrians can take precautions, such as minimizing distractions, the awareness of every individual in the vicinity simultaneously is unattainable.
The Role of Technology
Rather than placing the onus solely on pedestrians, Volkswagen's system alerts drivers to the presence of individuals in their vicinity. Utilizing sensors, the system scans the vehicle's surroundings and signals if it's unsafe to open the door. Before opening, a light on the side mirror indicates potential risks, followed by an audible warning prompting the driver to keep the door closed upon attempting to exit the vehicle.
Notably, the Volkswagen system remains active for three minutes post-vehicle stoppage. Therefore, if one remains in the car for an extended period before exiting, the warning might not activate. Additionally, it's crucial to recognize that despite system failure, drivers remain responsible for pedestrian safety. Thus, vigilance regarding surroundings remains pivotal when exiting the vehicle.
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