Which of the following vehicle features is designed to reduce costs associated with collisions, but can pose serious risks to emergency workers?

The energy-absorbing bumper system is designed to minimize damage during collisions, which can lead to reduced repair costs for vehicles. This system consists of components that deform or collapse under impact, absorbing energy that would otherwise transfer to the vehicle’s structure and occupants. While this feature effectively lowers repair costs and enhances passenger safety, it poses challenges for emergency responders.

In particular, the energy-absorbing bumpers may complicate extrication procedures. The materials used in these systems, such as plastics and composites, can behave unpredictably during a collision and may not provide the same structural integrity under severe impacts compared to traditional bumpers. This can complicate rescue operations by potentially making it harder to access victims or safely stabilize the vehicle. Emergency responders need to be aware of these systems and the way they can alter the dynamics of vehicle stability and safety, requiring specialized knowledge and techniques to manage the risks effectively.

In contrast, the other options denote features that may not directly relate to cost reduction in collision situations or do not carry significant risks for emergency workers in the same way that energy-absorbing bumpers do.