European crash tester says carmakers must bring back physical controls

Re:European crash tester says carmakers must bring back phys... by throwaway82063 on Tuesday March 05, 2024 @07:33AM (#39602487)

I disagree, whenever in the past I needed to use the honk, I've failed to do so because it's hard to press and requires you to take one hand off the wheel, which is the last of your instincts when you panicking, or both if you are juggling your gearstick.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:European crash tester says carmakers must bring back phys... by itishappy on Tuesday March 05, 2024 @10:18AM (#39604463)

Your instincts suck. Sorry to be blunt. It's similar to correcting a slide: your brain won't do it automatically, but it's worth learning because it's a safety feature.

If somebody enters your lane at speed, the safest thing to do is to let them know you're there. Swerving or breaking in response multiplies the problem, as now there are two cars driving erratically. The horn won't always resolve everything, but it's by far the most effective way to get somebody's attention in a hurry.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:European crash tester says carmakers must bring back phys... by throwaway82063 on Tuesday March 05, 2024 @10:58AM (#39605175)

>Swerving or breaking in response multiplies the problem, as now there are two cars driving erratically.

Holding your steering wheel with a single hand will cause you to drive erratically too.

>The horn won't always resolve everything, but it's by far the most effective way to get somebody's attention in a hurry.

That's why it should be possible to activate it with an easy to reach button or lever, preferably next to the emergency lights, instead of a heavy pressure button right in the center of the steering wheel.

[ Parent | on HN ]