Stability programs save lives

A major study has been undertaken by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) to verify that electronic stability control (ESC) facilities reduce both the frequency and severity of single-vehicle accidents.

MUARC's research has determined that vehicles fitted with ESC are up to 50 per cent less likely to be involved in single-vehicle accidents. Raw data for the study was provided by 13 state and federal regulatory bodies and motoring associations based in Australia and New Zealand.

Statistics show that 43 per cent of fatalities on Victorian roads last year resulted from single vehicle accidents. Add to the casualty figures 2000 serious injuries also arising and it can be seen that single vehicle accidents are a major cause of road trauma and consequent cost, both emotional and financial.

MUARC analysed crash statistics for 203,000 vehicles not equipped with ESC and 7700 vehicles equipped with ESC. The vehicles involved ranged in year of manufacture from 1997 to 2005 and were recorded in single-vehicle accidents occurring between 2001and 2005.

According to MUARC, the study indicates a reduction of 25 per cent of the risk of single-vehicle accidents in cars equipped with ESC. For 4WD and SUV-type vehicles, the figure improves to 51 per cent. Averaged out, the probability is reduced by 28 per cent across the board.

The study also unearthed stats to the effect of reduced driver injury in 28 per cent of cars and 66 per cent of 4WD and SUV-type vehicles.

Victorian motoring association, the RACV has reiterated the need for all new cars to be fitted with ESC as standard and encourages consumers to insist on having ESC fitted when they make a new car purchase.

The RACV's call comes at a time that the Victorian state government has opened debate on rewarding buyers for purchasing new cars equipped with ESC.

MUARC's research is evidence for a continuing trend in the reduction of the road toll, as more vehicles fitted with ESC enter the market and older vehicles without this technology are taken out of the parc.