20th Century inventions that help to keep vehicle accident rates down

Our roads can be hazardous enough with the growing volumes of traffic, bad weather conditions and careless drivers that contribute to increasing numbers of vehicle accidents, but, throughout the years we have seen many inventions come to light that have greatly improved road safety.

Traffic lights
The first traffic lights were introduced in 1914. They were installed in Cleveland, USA but only featured red and green lights so that drivers were either told to stop or go. The amber light was added to the design four years later, allowing drivers to prepare to stop or go and keep the traffic moving more fluidly.

Traffic lights are now used all over the world to control the flow and direction of traffic in busy areas, making the roads safer to cross for pedestrians and decreasing the chances of car crashes and other road accidents.

Cat's eyes
Just imagine how many more vehicle accidents there would be on our roads without the invention of cat's eyes. These came about when Percy Shaw almost drove off the edge of the road on a foggy night. He was saved from sustaining serious personal injuries or worse when the reflection from the eyes of a cat provided him with enough light to correct his path.

In 1935 Shaw invented the cat's-eye roadstud which features small beads that reflect light from car headlamps when placed along the road side.

What to do following a vehicle accident
If you have been involved in a vehicle accident then you may be able to make an accident claim.

If you have suffered a personal injury such as a whiplash injury, head injury or back injury then you could claim for pain and suffering, loss of earnings and medical costs. Our personal injury solicitors have an excellent success rate and will give you all the legal advice that you need.

You could also take advantage of our vehicle repair and replacement service if your car or van has been damaged in a vehicle accident.

To find out more about our services or to make a compensation claim following a vehicle accident call 0808 143 43 42.