Since the present world began to go digital, there has been one invention after another. One of the recent trends in the automobile industry is the advent of automatic ignition vehicles in 2018. Since they were first implemented, automatic ignition vehicles have gained popularity in Florida and the US.

Moreover, at least half of the vehicles sold in the United States, including in Florida, are automatic ignition vehicles. Their popularity is primarily due to their convenience and accessibility, something every car owner looks for in their vehicles. 

However, as great as this is, automatic ignition vehicles are not without their limitations, which can be life-threatening. In light of this, speaking to personal injury attorney Mitchell Feldman of Feldman Legal Group is a great idea. In this article, we establish the fact that automatic ignition vehicles are risky and explain some of the life-threatening risks posed.

Drivers Can Forget to Turn Off Their Vehicle

One of the downsides to automatic ignition vehicles is that drivers often forget to turn off their vehicles. These vehicles have a standard feature with some autostart car models, but it is optional for most. When drivers push the button to start the car, they often forget to push it again to turn it off.

Since the car does not have a key, drivers have to put the car in park and press the stop button. However, drivers can forget to do that, taking the keyfob with them and leaving the engine sitting idle. That means the vehicle continues to consume gasoline, thus increasing the expenses you make on the car. Apart from that, the overall lifespan of the vehicle is severely depleted every time it is left idle.

Worse still, for every second the car is left running, it steadily releases carbon monoxide. Unfortunately, this highly harmful gas does not stay contained in the garage; it slips into your home and the environment.

It Has Led to the Death of Many People

Perhaps we would not worry about releasing carbon monoxide if the gas was not lethal. Unfortunately, it is – recent figures have shown that at least 36 people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Meanwhile, those who do not die from carbon monoxide poisoning may suffer other negative consequences, such as brain damage.

Despite the great convenience automatic ignition vehicles offer, they have led to the deaths of too many people and left more injured. Nevertheless, all is not lost as experts rally around to proffer a solution to the risks associated with these vehicles. Nevertheless, the state of Florida has yet to standardize a measure that will prevent the production of such incidents.

Practical Solutions to Combat the Situation

Different automotive safety professionals have provided their views on dealing with the risks associated with automatic ignition vehicles. For example, they have pushed for the introduction of safety devices like automatic vehicle engine shutdown. Essentially, with this feature, the vehicle will shut itself off once it is parked and has stopped running.

The other alternative to automatic shutdown is an alarm to warn drivers that their engine is still running. It will remind the driver that they are yet to turn off their vehicle if and when they forget.

Conclusion: Ways to Maximize Your Automatic Ignition Vehicles

Automatic ignition vehicles offer unmatched convenience, eliminating the need for traditional keys. However, they also come with security risks, making them prime targets for theft and accidental damage. Since these cars start with the push of a button, a thief only needs access to the key fob to drive away. Worse, forgetting your key fob inside can leave your vehicle vulnerable, as some models may still allow operation without requiring the fob to be in hand.  

To protect your car, always park in well-lit, secure areas, preferably with surveillance cameras or high foot traffic. Lock your doors and double-check that your key fob is not left inside or too close to the vehicle, as some cars may still detect the fob and remain unlocked.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal, medical, or professional advice. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, the risks and safety concerns associated with automatic ignition vehicles may vary depending on the model and individual circumstances. It is recommended that readers consult with relevant professionals or experts for guidance on specific concerns regarding vehicle safety.

Published by Joseph T.