ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEMS
Recent accident data shows that Electronic Stability Control Systems can reduce the likelihood of being involved in loss-of-control crashes.

These systems use sensors in the vehicle to compare differences between the car's actual course and the driver's steering wheel input. If the computer senses the loss of control is imminent, the system applies braking to individual wheels and cuts engine power as necessary to bring the car back to its intended course.

The Electronic Stability Control System's software is programmed after exhaustive tests in a variety of driving conditions. While many systems can be switched off, it is recommended that the driver leaves the system on as emergency situations can occur at any time - often without warning.

Drivers must drive responsibly in accordance with the prevailing road and weather conditions. Even vehicles fitted with Electronic Stability Control Systems cannot prevent loss of control in every circumstance.

The names given by the manufacturers to their Electronic Stability Control Systems differ. The following are some of the names used:

Electronic Stabilty Program
ESP

Electronic Stabilisation Program
ESP

Vehicle Dynamic Control
VDC

Electronic Stability Control
ESC

Dynamic Stability Control
DSC

Vehicle Stability Control
VSC

Vehicle Stability/Swerve Control
VSC

Active Stability Control
ASC

Other names may also be used.