A severe car crash can be a terrifying experience. Knowing you have a system in place to automatically call for help can provide peace of mind. Apple’s Crash Detection feature, available on newer iPhones and Apple Watches, does just that. This article explains how Crash Detection works, how to set it up, and important privacy considerations.
How Crash Detection Identifies a Crashed Car
Crash Detection utilizes advanced sensors in compatible iPhones and Apple Watches to identify severe car crashes. This includes collisions such as front-impact, side-impact, rear-end impacts, and rollovers. The feature is designed to work in various passenger vehicles like sedans, minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
Your iPhone and Apple Watch can detect severe car crashes
When a crash is detected, your device will sound an alarm and display an alert. If you’re unresponsive, it will automatically contact emergency services after a 20-second delay. This automated response is crucial in situations where the driver or passengers are incapacitated.
Device Compatibility for Crash Detection
To utilize Crash Detection, you’ll need a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch running the latest software:
- iPhone 14 or later models with iOS 16 or later.
- Apple Watch Series 8 or later, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and Apple Watch Ultra with watchOS 9 or later.
Emergency calls utilize a cellular connection or Wi-Fi Calling with an active internet connection.
Setting Up Crash Detection for a Crashed Car Scenario
Crash Detection is enabled by default on compatible devices. However, you can enhance its functionality by:
- Setting up Medical ID: This allows first responders to access vital medical information in case of a crash. You can add details like allergies, medical conditions, and emergency contacts in the Health app.
- Enabling Location Services: Ensure Location Services are turned on for Emergency SOS in your iPhone settings. This allows your location to be shared with emergency contacts and responders.
Making an Emergency Call After a Crash
If a crash occurs and you’re responsive, you can manually initiate an emergency call by swiping the Emergency Call slider on your device’s screen.
If you’re unresponsive, the device will automatically make the call after the 20-second delay. It will then play a looped audio message informing emergency services of the crash and providing your estimated location. This message repeats at intervals, allowing you or someone nearby to speak with the responder if possible.
Deactivating Crash Detection
While not recommended, you can disable Crash Detection on your iPhone or Apple Watch through the Emergency SOS settings. Disabling it on one paired device will automatically turn it off on the other.
Crash Detection and Your Privacy
Crash Detection relies on sensor data to function. This data is processed on your device and discarded after a crash is detected unless you consent to share it with Apple for improving the feature. Sharing location data with emergency services is essential for a timely response and occurs regardless of Location Services settings.
Conclusion
Crash Detection is a valuable safety feature that can automatically summon help in the event of a severe car crash. By understanding how it works and ensuring it’s properly set up, you can enhance your safety on the road. While the feature cannot detect all crashes, it provides an added layer of protection in critical situations. Remember to keep your device software updated to access the latest improvements and features.
