Is Vehicle Technology Putting You at Risk?

If you have bought or leased a car or truck lately you may have noticed all the new cutting-edge technology in your vehicle. We have come a long way since cruise control, airbags and anti-lock brakes. Today we have autonomous, self-driving vehicles. Now we have lane-keep assist, stability control, collision warning systems, park assist, and even 360-degree cameras. All these new technologies are there to improve safety and reduce auto accidents.

Is this new technology making drivers lazy and putting them more at risk for accidents and injuries? A recent survey from AAA reports that technology like blind spot monitors, forward collision warnings and lane-keeping assistance may be relied upon too much by drivers.

The research showed that almost 80% of drivers who rely on blind spot monitors were either unaware of the limitations or think that they could accurately detect vehicles passing quickly or pedestrians. Drivers also admitted that they do not look as closely when merging or backing up with blind spot monitoring.

The research also showed that more than a quarter of vehicle drivers who had a forward collision system relied on the system and they were more comfortable paying attention to other things than the road when they were at the wheel.

Safety experts say that drivers are often unfamiliar with the use and application of these new technologies, and as a result, over-rely on them, and ultimately that can lead to more car accidents and vehicle crashes. Safety experts urge that vehicle owners take the time to learn and understand how to safely use their automated driving assistance systems (ADAS). It is just as important to learn ADAS limitations as it is on how to use them.

These new innovative technologies are not meant to replace your eyes and common sense. There are no guarantees when driving and unpredictable safety issues can arise. When used properly these technologies help to make driving and you safer. Early warnings of potential dangers allow us to react in time to avoid potential harm to oneself, one’s vehicle or others around you (bikers, pedestrians, or other cars and trucks on the roadway). However, relying on those warnings and taking your eyes off the road and hands off the steering wheel is hazardous to everyone.

AAA’s study shows that when properly utilized, ADAS technologies have the potential to prevent 40 percent of all vehicle crashes and nearly 30 percent of traffic deaths. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) research also reports benefits of proper use of ADAS technologies.

Additional Resources:

• NHTSA – Automated Vehicles for Safety