New technology helps drivers stay in their own lane

It can happen to the best driver, when you least expect it — while chatting on the cell, fidgeting with the radio, cranking your head to holler at the kids, or just closing your eyes for a split second to rest. Of course, that's when trouble often hits.

Lane departures are common; unfortunately, the consequences can be deadly. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, lane departures play a part in nearly 25,000 fatal accidents annually.

To help mitigate these accidents, automotive equipment supplier Valeo developed its LaneVue Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, in conjunction with its technology partner Iteris, for Nissan. The technology is designed to warn drivers if they're swerving into the path of danger.

The system debuted in 2004 in North America on the 2005 Infiniti FX45 SUV. For 2007, it appears on more Infiniti nameplates including the M35 and M45 sedans and the FX35 and FX45 SUVs.

The LDW system consists of a miniature video camera mounted behind the vehicle's rear-view mirror. It continuously tracks the lane markings in front of the vehicle (within 15 metres). To read the rest of the article: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/new-technology-helps-drivers-stay-in-their-own-lane/article849367/