Electronic stability control (ESC) uses sensors to detect loss of control and applies brakes to individual wheels to help drivers maintain control and bring the vehicle back on the intended path. ESC was first introduced by BMW in 1980 and later adopted by other manufacturers. It uses wheel speed, vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, and yaw rate sensors along with brake force controllers and a master cylinder to stabilize the vehicle. Studies show ESC can prevent about one-third of fatal accidents.