Automatic Collision Notification systems are one of the most advanced safety features available in modern vehicles. They save hundreds of lives each year. Even though they don’t prevent car crashes or cushion passengers from accidents, they’re one of the best features a vehicle can have when it comes to keeping drivers and their passengers alive.
So what exactly is an Automatic Collision Notification system, and what makes it so invaluable as a safety feature?
What is Automatic Collision Notification?
Automatic Collision Notification, also known as ACN, is a safety feature in certain automobiles that automatically alerts and informs local emergency services whenever you crash your vehicle.
It does this by recording specific data such as the vehicle’s location, crash speed, and travel direction and sending this information to the nearest emergency response center. The system is sometimes even capable of detecting whether or not the airbags were deployed, counting the number of occupants, and determining whether or not the occupants were injured in any way.
ACN is designed to quicken the response time for medical professionals and emergency services by informing them where to go and preparing them for the severity of the crash.
How Does Automatic Collision Notification Help Drivers?
It’s estimated that ACN saves over 700 lives annually, making it one of the most useful and effective vehicle safety systems. Though ACN itself doesn’t prevent drivers from crashing, it helps first responders and medical professionals reach the site faster.
The first few moments of the crash are referred to as the “Golden Hour” because they determine whether or not a person involved in an accident can survive.
How Does the Automatic Collision Notification System Work?
When a vehicle crashes, its impact sensors will detect sudden deceleration. This makes the airbags deploy and activates the ACN system. The system can also be activated manually by pressing an SOS button near the rear-view mirror. When the system activates, it informs a live emergency call center agent.
In some cases, the agent will call the occupants to assess the severity of the damage and any injuries sustained. In severe cases, or if there is no response from the vehicle’s occupants, the agent will alert local emergency services.
What is Advanced Automatic Collision Notification?
A more advanced type of ACN is AACN or Advanced Automatic Collision Notification. Much like ACN, AACN is an emergency system that transmits crash data either automatically or manually after a crash has occurred.
What differentiates AACN from ACN is that it provides more detailed data on the accident, including vehicle speed, the number of passengers, and information on airbag deployment.
This information is vital to first responders since it can prepare them to deal with the accident better before they arrive, improving their ability to provide proper medical attention.
Which Manufacturers Offer Free Automatic Collision Notification Systems?
Fortunately, many automobile manufacturers offer free ACN systems that come with their vehicles. This makes their vehicles safer to drive and offers their customers a good backup safety system in case they get into an accident. If you own a vehicle equipped with technology like this, it’s important to stay up to date with all its software. Update your ACN systems as soon as new versions are available.
- Acura – AcuraLink Assist
- Audi –-Connect CARE
- BMW ConnectedDrive
- Ford/Lincoln – 911 Assist
- Genesis – Connected Services
- Honda – HondaLink Assist
- Hyundai – Bluelink+
- Jaguar/Land Rover – InControl Protect SOS Emergency Services
- Mazda – Automatic 911 Dialing
- Polestar – Connect
- Porsche – Connect Care
- Tesla – Vehicle Update
- Volvo – OnCall
Which Manufacturers Offer Paid Automatic Collision Notification Systems?
Here are some popular automobile manufacturers that offer subscriptions for ACN systems.
- Jeep – Jeep Connect
- Kia – Kia UVO, Kia Connect
- Lexus – Lexus Enform Safety Connect
- Mercedes – Mercedes Me Connect
- Ram – Ram Connect
- Toyota – Toyota Safety Connect
- Volkswagen – Volkswagen Car-Net
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an automatic collision notification system and an automatic collision avoidance system?
The ACN is a safety system that alerts nearby emergency services when a vehicle crashes. It only activates when the accident has already happened and the vehicle has collided with something.
On the other hand, the Automatic Collision Avoidance system is designed to prevent collisions from happening in the first place. This safety system warns drivers when their vehicle is about to collide with something, whether it be an obstacle on the road, a pedestrian, or another vehicle.
The system utilizes sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to detect when collisions are imminent. It then alerts and assists the driver to prevent the crash.
How much does an automatic collision notification system cost?
The cost of an ACN system will vary depending on which system or service you decide to get. Bear in mind that this system isn’t available in every vehicle. As mentioned previously, certain manufacturers offer free ACN whereas others only offer free trials. For paid subscriptions, you can expect to pay between $5 to $15 a month.
What happens if you don’t use an automatic collision notification system?
While it is possible to drive without an ACN (many vehicles do not have them) it’s a good idea to have this feature in your vehicle to have some extra assurance on the road. It’s a harmless safety feature that comes with no drawbacks and even if it won’t see use most of the time, it’s something you’ll be glad to have around when it’s needed.
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
