Adaptive headlights can help drivers see better on dark, curved roads. And while they aren't as common on today's vehicles as other technologies, Lachnit says they could provide great assistance in the fog or rain.
For example, BMW's adaptive headlight system works by using sensors to measure speed and the steering angle. Based on information sent from the sensors, small electric motors adjust the headlights so they fall directly on the road ahead.
This car safety feature was found to be even more effective in preventing crashes than Highway Loss Data Institute researchers expected. They analyzed adaptive headlights offered by Acura, Mazda, Mercedes and Volvo, and found that property damage claims fell by as much as 10 percent.