Apple's Crash Detection feature, available on iPhones running iOS 16 or later and Apple Watch Series 8 or later, is a potentially lifesaving tool that can automatically alert emergency services in the event of a severe car accident. The feature uses movement sensors to detect when you're driving and can detect if you come to a sudden and abrupt stop, triggering an emergency call and alerting your emergency contacts.

The Crash Detection feature is turned on by default, but you can check and adjust the setting on both your iPhone and Apple Watch. On your iPhone, go to Settings, tap Emergency SOS, and turn on Call After Severe Crash. You'll also need to set up your emergency contacts in the Health app and grant your phone permission to share your location. On your Apple Watch, you can enable Crash Detection through the Apple Watch app on your iPhone or directly on the watch itself.

When Crash Detection is triggered, you'll receive an audible alert on your device and an emergency call alert onscreen. You can choose to place an emergency call or cancel the alert. If you don't respond within 20 seconds, the call will be placed automatically, using a looped audio message to explain your location and situation to emergency responders. At the same time, your emergency contacts will receive their own alert.

It's essential to set up Crash Detection correctly to ensure that it works effectively in emergency situations. Make sure to specify your emergency contacts and grant location sharing permission to ensure that the feature can function as intended.

While Crash Detection is a valuable feature, it's also important to note that it's not a substitute for safe driving practices. Always prioritize road safety and follow traffic laws to minimize the risk of accidents.

In conclusion, Apple's Crash Detection feature is a powerful tool that can help in emergency situations. By setting it up correctly and understanding how it works, you can ensure that you're prepared in the event of a severe car accident.