A blind spot monitor on the Lexus UX compact SUV.
For those of you who own cars with blind-spot monitors, they’re invaluable in telling you whether a car is creeping up inside your blind spot.
However, there are drivers who own cars that don’t have this 21st-century level of safety tech.
What is a blind-spot monitor?
Some automakers implement their systems differently than others, but they all essentially serve the same purpose.
A simple but effective safety tool, these systems illuminate a small light to warn a driver whether a car is in his or her blind spot.
The light can either be incorporated within the surface of the wing mirror itself, or on the mirror housing like how Audi does theirs.
If the driver attempts to change lanes with the blind-spot monitor illuminated, the system will sound an audible warning.
That tells the driver it is unsafe to perform a lane-change manoeuvre at this point in time, and the driver should probably slow down or speed up to ensure enough space.
Are they worth paying extra for?
Such systems come standard on most modern cars.
For others, however, the system costs extra, likely as part of a safety pack.
Ask yourself if you really need it. After all, having a blind-spot monitor installed is no guarantee of it being 100 percent effective.
Traffic conditions and errant drivers are the variables in this equation, no matter how well you take care of yourself on the road.
If you are driving a small car, like a hatchback or compact sedan, chances are you won’t need the blind-spot monitor.
Cars with large windows are easy to see out of, and probably won’t require the use of a blind-spot monitor.
However, you might want to install one if you drive a large SUV, and especially if you always transport people or children.
Having that system gives you a peace of mind, and allows you to concentrate on the road ahead instead of monitoring what’s around you.
Would we get one?
If it were up to us, we’d recommend getting such a system installed on your car if the manufacturer has it on the options list.
After all, when it comes to safety, every little bit helps!
