Road safety will be boosted under a proposal being considered by the Federal Government to introduced compulsory brake technologies in light vehicles.
Under the proposal, the Australian Design Rules would be amended to make Electronic Stability Control compulsory for new light commercial vehicles, such as utilities and goods vans. Brake Assist Systems would also be made standard in light passenger vehicles, including cars, passenger vans and off-road vehicles, as well as in in light commercial vehicles.
Electronic Stability Control helps drivers maintain control of their vehicle by automatically braking individual wheels when sensors detect the vehicle is skidding.
Brake Assist Systems helps drivers to stop safely by detecting when a driver is trying to make an emergency stop and maximising brake performance to stop the vehicle in the shortest possible time.
Road Safety Minister, Catherine King, said the proposal had the potential to save the lives of drivers and pedestrians alike.
“Each year over 200 pedestrians and cyclists die on Australian roads and many more are seriously injured,” said Ms King.
“Mandating vehicle technology that helps drivers to avoid collisions is an effective way to make our roads safer for all users.”
She said the measure will also help bolster the National Road Safety Strategy, which is aimed at reducing deaths and injuries on Australia’s roads.
Changes to Australian Design Rules are subject to consultation with interested individuals and parties invited to provide comment until the end of June.
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