As part of its mission to keep highways safe, the Electronic Stability Control Coalition encourages drivers to travel responsibly this summer, a season ranked as one of the most dangerous by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Studies show that fatal crashes are more likely to happen during the warm weather months of June, July and August, as more people hit the roads for vacations and other travels. To make highway traveling safer, one of the most important steps a driver can take is to purchase a vehicle equipped with Electronic Stability Control -- a revolutionary automotive feature that helps prevent crashes due to a driver's loss of vehicle control.

ESC is an active safety system that detects when a driver is about to lose control of a vehicle and automatically intervenes to provide stability and help the driver stay on course. The technology has become even more important in recent years, as documented evidence of a rise in traffic fatalities, including those due to rollovers, has come to light. ESC is designed to help drivers maintain control of their cars in all driving situations, but it is particularly useful during avoidance maneuvers, cornering situations and weather conditions that can cause skids, spins and rollovers.

Last year over 43,200 were killed on U.S. roads, up from 42,800 in 2002. In the United States, road crashes are the leading cause of death among people aged 4 to 34. As families plan their vacations it is important to keep ESC, and other safety equipment, in mind.

"ESC is more than just a safety feature -- it is a safety necessity," said Adele Derby, former Associate Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "Studies both here and abroad have demonstrated the efficacy of this technology, and I would urge every new-vehicle buyer to choose a vehicle equipped with ESC."

What is ESC

ESC is an active safety technology that helps drivers maintain control of their vehicle and prevent crashes before they occur. The system compares a driver's intended course with the vehicle's actual movement. When instability is detected, ESC automatically applies brakes to individual wheels and can also reduce engine torque to help keep the vehicle on track.