Modern cars often come with a number of advanced safety technologies — but there’s one that many drivers still don’t make full use of: Electronic Stability Control (ESC). ESC is designed to help a vehicle stay stable when the driver loses control — for example on slippery roads, during sharp turns, or when avoiding unexpected obstacles. When ESC senses a loss of traction or steering control, it automatically brakes individual wheels and sometimes reduces engine power to help steer the car back on course. (Wikipedia)
Why It Matters a Lot
ESC can make the difference between a scary skid and a controlled recovery. Studies have shown that before ESC became widespread, a significant portion of fatal crashes — especially single-vehicle accidents or those involving loss-of-control on wet or icy roads — might have been prevented if cars were equipped with it. (Wikipedia)
Because this feature works automatically, many drivers don’t even know when it’s helping — or even that it’s there. As a result, its lifesaving potential is often taken for granted, even though it could make driving significantly safer.
What Drivers Should Do
- Check if your car has ESC (look for ESC / ESP / DSC / similar acronyms in the dashboard or manual).
- Maintain good tires and brakes — ESC can’t work miracles if tires don’t grip or brakes are worn.
- On wet, icy or uneven roads, drive carefully — even with ESC, slow speeds and safe distances matter.
- If you’re buying a second-hand car, prefer one with ESC — it remains one of the most effective standard safety features in everyday driving.
