GM Introduces New Blind Zone Technology

Automaker Looks to Combat Lane Change Mishaps

Every driver has been there.  You look to change lanes and another car appears, seemingly out of nowhere.  Accident or not, you're shaken and your heart pounds.  GM looks to prevent these types of incidents with their new Side Blind Zone Alert system.

 Available in the 2010 Buick Lacrosse and certain Cadillac models, the Blind Zone Alert system uses radar-equipped sensors to alert drivers of any potential vehicles in their blind spot.  Small orange icons appear on the side view mirror to alert drivers of oncoming cars.  If the driver puts a turn signal on in that direction, the icons will flash.   

Essentially, the Blind Zone Alert system gives drivers another set of eyes to monitor their blind spots. 

“This technology makes lane changes safer because it alerts driver’s to vehicles that otherwise might escape their vision.” said Kent Lybecker, a GM active safety systems engineer.

The alert system covers a range of one lane width on each side of the vehicle plus approximately 10 feet from the rear.  The alternating radar beams provide a layer of protection not previously available. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says improper lane changes are a factor in up to 85 percent of all crashes.

Due in part to the Blind Zone Alert system, The Buick LaCrosse is one of 27 new vehicles to be named a Top Safety Pick for 2010 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  The award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting occupants in front, side, rear and rollover crashes based on Institute testing.

New Buick Lacrosse models are available at West Herr's East Aurora location.  Visit us online or stop by for more information on one of the safest cars in America.