Pennsylvania drivers would be able to purchase new cars with collision avoidance systems installed at no extra price if the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) had its way, but despite recommending these systems for several years, only four models manufactured in 2014 included such a system. The NTSB says that the devices would reduce the severity of about 80 percent of rear-end accidents that kill about 1,700 people annually and injure around half a million.

Collision avoidance systems can do things such as warn a driver of an oncoming car crash or that the driver has wandered into the wrong lane. Some can take over the braking for the driver or stabilize the vehicle. In the past, a leading automotive manufacturer trade group has said that consumers should have the choice as to whether these systems are installed on their vehicles. However, the NTSB thinks the government should require the systems and has put out a safety alert that urges consumers to purchase vehicles that have them.

The NTSB has said that both a lack of public knowledge about collision avoidance systems and a lack of incentives for their installation are both among the reasons that the systems have not yet become widespread. Furthermore, waiting for the technology to improve has also resulted in a failure to move towards including the devices in all vehicles.

Regardless of safety features, people will continue to be injured in accidents that are caused by another driver, and those injuries might lead to long periods of rehabilitation. Medical bills may be high, and the victim may be unable to work for an extended period of time. In such an event, it may be advisable to consult with an attorney to determine if a personal injury lawsuit filed against the responsible party is an appropriate method of seeking compensation.