Since the introduction of auto safety standards, highway deaths in this country have been on a steady decline. At one time automobile deaths hovered around 50,000 per year. That number now is closer to 35,000 despite more cars on the road and more miles being driven.

However good that news is, Volvo wants it all. The auto maker has set as a goal zero highway deaths in their cars by 2020, according to Wards Automotive. Other manufacturers are said to be examining this as well, though none has been bold enough to announce it publicly.

As the saying goes, “We have the technology”, but is there a risk for Volvo in going down this road? Could it be interpreted as a promise that could expose the company to increased risk of litigation?

The vast majority of car crashes are caused by operator error and this element can be difficult if not impossible for a manufacturer to control. New safety measures such as Volvo’s City Safety system can do much to reduce crashes, but they can also lull drivers into a false sense of security and make them even less engaged in the operation of their cars.

A better idea: More comprehensive driver training and higher standards for licensing. (IMHO.)

--M.D.