Blind Spot Assist, developed by Mercedes-Benz, uses radar technology to monitor the areas directly alongside and behind the car. It warns the driver when changing lanes would be too dangerous.
Every year, around 9,500 serious road accidents in Germany are caused by motorists who fail to take heed of the traffic behind when changing lanes or cut across in front of another vehicle too soon after overtaking.
The Mercedes assistance system can help drivers to change lanes safely: short-range radar sensors housed on both sides of the rear bumper monitor the areas directly alongside and behind the car. This process enables them to see if there is another vehicle in the next lane – in the so-called blind spot. In such situations, the system informs the driver by illuminating a red warning signal in the glass of the exterior mirror. If the driver fails to see this warning and indicates to change lanes, a warning signal sounds as well.
