Many of us feel fairly confident behind the wheel. But what if the decision to speed up on that empty stretch of highway wasn’t ours to make?

According to Fox News, a British motoring magazine recently reported that Ferrari is developing a number of technological advances that will allow their vehicles to monitor and respond to the mental state of a driver—in short, mind-reading sports cars. The famed Italian auto company filed a patent application for its innovations and hopes to implement the new technology in future models.

Psychophysical sensors and driver safety

Ferrari’s “psychic” sports cars may sound like the stuff of space-age fiction, but the science behind the project is fairly legitimate, but remains to be seen. Vehicle cabins will be fitted with biometric and psychometric sensors, devices that will read a driver’s blood pressure, heart rate, eye blink rate and even brain activity in order to asses his or her needs for optimal driving performance. The car will then use this information to adjust the dynamics of the car accordingly.

In other words, the car will drive in a way that meets the driver’s expectations of their performance, rather than the sometimes disappointing and unsafe reality, in order to help prevent car accidents due to poor driver judgment.

While we’re still in charge: How to stay safe behind wheel

If Ferrari’s patent is approved, we may one day be freed from the burdens of blurry night vision, missed turns and other mishaps behind the wheel. But until then, it is important to take responsibility and practice safe, defensive driving habits to avoid involvement in an injury car accident.

Follow these tips to remain focused on the road:

  • Whenever possible, avoid driving when you are too tired, stressed or distracted to concentrate fully on the task at hand.
  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol or any medications that may cause drowsiness.
  • Study your route before driving in unfamiliar places. Looking at maps or directions while driving can take your attention off the road and result in an accident.
  • Avoid any other activities that divide your attention while driving, such as eating, programming the radio, or checking your cell phone.

We all try to operate good judgment as drivers; but occasionally, distracted driver accidents do happen. If you find yourself the victim of a San Diego injury car accident, contact our attorneys at Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP. to learn about your legal options.  We offer free, personalized consultations and extensive experience in the field of personal injury. Contact us online now or call us at 1-858-551-2090.