Driver assistance systems: What are they and what do they do?

Modern cars are packed with a variety of driver aids and systems, but what do you need to know about them?

The Lane Keep Assist System has been a hot topic of late, as it’s one of the ways in which a car can effectively ‘steer’ itself. Picture: BMW/PA

Assistance systems are a core part of how modern cars keep their occupants as safe as possible. You might have noticed terms like ‘assisted driving’ have started to become more commonplace in the motoring industry, but actually deciphering what these systems do can prove to be a little confusing.

So, let’s dive in and take a look at some of the key assistance systems you need to know about…