Active and passive safety

Active safety vs passive safety

Vehicle safety equipment is divided into two categories. Active safety covers systems that help avoid the accident (ABS, ESP, steering, brakes, tyres). Passive safety covers those that limit injuries once the accident has occurred (seatbelt, airbags, headrest, deformable structure).

ABS (anti-lock braking system)

ABS prevents the wheels from locking during sudden, harsh braking. Without ABS, locked wheels cause the vehicle to skid, making it uncontrollable. With ABS, the driver retains control of the steering even when braking hard. The system works automatically.

EBA (emergency brake assist)

Studies show that during emergency braking, the driver generally does not press hard enough on the pedal. EBA detects a rapid press and automatically amplifies the braking force. It is always paired with ABS and automatically triggers the hazard lights to warn following vehicles.

ESP (electronic stability control)

ESP is an anti-skid system. In bends or during sudden changes of direction, it acts on the brakes and acceleration to maintain the vehicle's trajectory and counter centrifugal force. It is automatic and paired with ABS.

When the ESP light flashes on the dashboard, it means the system is currently correcting the trajectory: it is working. If it stays on steadily, the system is deactivated.

Cruise control and the speed limiter

Cruise control automatically maintains the chosen speed without pressing the accelerator. It reduces consumption by avoiding speed variations. To deactivate: brake, depress the clutch or press the button. Not to be used in built-up areas.

The speed limiter prevents exceeding a programmed speed, even when pressing the accelerator. Caution: it does not act on the brakes, so on a downhill slope the programmed speed can be exceeded by the weight of the vehicle.

The seatbelt

The three-point seatbelt is the most effective piece of passive safety equipment. It passes over three strong points on the body: collarbone, right hip, left hip. The strap must not be twisted, must not touch the neck (risk of burns) and must not pass under the armpit (risk of broken ribs). Modern seatbelts have a pre-tensioner that automatically tightens them in the event of a collision.

Airbags

Airbags inflate in a fraction of a second during a collision to cushion the impact. They complement the seatbelt but do not replace it: without a seatbelt, the airbag can cause serious injury. The passenger airbag must be deactivated when a rear-facing child seat is fitted at the front.

The headrest

The headrest is not simply a comfort accessory. It is a genuine piece of safety equipment that protects against whiplash injury in the event of a rear collision. The top of your head should be level with the top of the headrest.

The common limit of all these aids

No driver assistance system can replace the driver's vigilance. ABS does not brake shorter, ESP does not hold the road at excessive speed, and airbags do not protect without a seatbelt. This equipment assists the driver but does not compensate for risk-taking.