Small details, big roles
On most modern car lines, the door locking system has two basic functions: locking/unlocking the entire door from the driver's side and automatic locking mode when the car is running. However, many drivers often only care about locking their vehicles when leaving the parking lot, and rarely proactively use the door lock while moving.
Locating the door from the inside while the vehicle is running is a simple but extremely important act, says Dr Mark Phillips, a car safety expert at the Texas Institute for Transportation Research. It not only prevents thieves from opening doors to break into red light stops, but also helps keep the doors tight in case the vehicle is involved in an accident or strong collision.
Prevenible situations
In reality, many robberies occur when vehicles stop at red lights, especially in crowded urban areas. The subjects often take advantage of unlocked doors to quickly open and snatch handbags and phones from passengers. If the driver proactively presses the lock button right at departure, this risk will be significantly limited.
Another case is when there are young children accompanying. Many parents are subjective and do not activate the child lock mode, leading to the child possibly accidentally opening the door while the car is running. Using a combination of a central lock and a child lock will ensure absolute safety in these situations.
In addition, in serious accidents, the electronic locking system will help keep the door closed, preventing people in the car from being thrown out. In many accidents, passengers being thrown out of the vehicle is the main cause of death. A proper lock system can save lives, Dr. Phillips emphasized.
Experts recommend that drivers should form the habit of pressing the door lock button as soon as the vehicle begins moving. For vehicles without automatic locking mode, this becomes even more important. In addition, you should periodically check the lock function, especially when the vehicle has been used for a long time.
In addition, parents with young children should prioritize using children's locks at the back door and remind children not to play near the door hand area while the car is running.
