The numbers aren’t huge but they’re still horrifying. Every year children die after being left behind accidentally in the rear row of cars. Every tragic instance brings calls to do something about the problem.
About two years ago, GMC first introduced a rear-seat alert system. It was activated whenever a rear door was opened before the vehicle was set in motion. When the driver cut the engine, an alert would warn them that a back seat was likely occupied.
No one doubts that this kind of technology is a life-saver. Gradually, other manufacturers have started ot install similar systems in their vehicles. Now Nissan has announced that, as of 2022, all of its vehicles will feature such a safety system.
Like GM’s system, Nissans technology involves detecting when a rear door is opened prior to the vehicle being set in motion. The name Rear Door Alert is pretty straightforward. The system, developed by two engineers who also happen to be mothers, will warn the driver once the engine has been turned off at destination - not just once but twice.
The first alert will be a visual one, displayed on the dashboard. The second will consist of a series of muted horn sounds reminding the driver to check the rear seats.
The first models – Nissan has identified the Pathfinder, Altima, Rogue and Sentra, will get the systems starting in 2019., with a full rollout to all Nissan and INFINITI models being completed by 2022.
Hats off as well to the manufacturer for making this new technology standard equipment in all trims.
Here’s hoping other manufacturers take heed and do the same, as quickly as possible.