I can’t count the number of times I’ve tried to merge into another lane and been honked at because I didn’t check my blind spot. I’m lucky I haven’t caused any accidents!

But the Ford Motor Company is looking out for people like me. That’s why the safety engineers at the company have developed the Blind Spot Monitoring System. Sounds fairly self-explanatory, eh?

The new safety features are going to start appearing on Ford cars in 2009. With this new device, the cars have radars that detect when something is around it. When driving on the road, the system alerts the driver with a visual indicator on the side rearview mirrors. The system also emits an audible alert in case the driver doesn’t notice the visual warning. And since the system is only activated when the driver uses the turn signal, you won’t have to put up with the alerts at other times when you’re driving.

In addition to the Blind Spot Monitoring System, Ford is also introducing a Cross Traffic Alert System. This comes in handy when a driver is backing out of their driveway or a parking space. If something is behind your car or if there is traffic coming toward the vehicle, the system alerts the driver so they can make the necessary corrections.

Look for these and other safety features that Ford is working on for you!