Ford's recent announcement that it may begin offering "lane-keeping" options on new vehicles may have Massachusetts drivers wondering if the new technology will really prevent car accidents.

Similar technology is already available on some Toyota, Lexus and Mercedes vehicles, and it has not gone without criticism.

Ford's technology includes a camera mounted onto the rear-view mirror; when the system is on and the vehicle is driving more than 40 mph, the system will sense if the car is unintentionally drifting near the edge of the lane on either side. If the system senses that the drift is not intentional, the steering wheel will vibrate as a warning to the driver.

After the wheel vibrates, if the driver does not correct the steering, the software is designed to then takeover the power steering and move the car back into the center of the lane.

The program will also warn drivers about drowsiness. The software detects drowsiness by sensing weaving within the lane. Upon first detecting this behavior, the software will chime and the dashboard will display this message: "Rest suggested." If the pattern is not corrected, a louder chime and a "rest now" display will result.

While this technology may seem like a good way to promote safe driving, there are problems associated with it. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not approved of lane-keeping technology yet.

One issue is that the technology is susceptible to certain weather or road conditions. For example, around curves, during rainfall and when the sun is at certain angles, the camera might not accurately read lane markings.

Additionally, one engineer said in a news report that he worries drivers may begin taking more risks if they rely on their cars to correct them, which could result in more dangerous driving.

One thing that is for certain is that as such safe-driving technologies are developed, it remains vital for drivers to be alert and aware of their surroundings and to take the responsibility of driving seriously.

Source: New York Times, "Trying to Nudge Drowsy Drivers," Randall Stross, Jan. 21, 2012