Automotive technology continues to rapidly improve. As built-in functionalities such as navigation and entertainment systems advance, state-of-the-art safety mechanisms are also becoming commonplace in newer vehicles.
While these features are useful in preventing accidents, they cannot completely account for human error. Collision warning features and backup cameras can prove helpful, but how aware are Florida motorists of the limitations of such tools?
Research indicates a potential blind spot
A recent federal study indicates that advanced driver assistance systems can prevent 40 percent of auto accidents. These systems, however, do not make vehicles autonomous. Research by the AAA Foundation suggests that drivers are shockingly unaware of how this technology can fall short. The study found that the following areas have given some motorists a false sense of confidence:
- Cruise control: Adaptive cruise control can change speeds and brake, which may cause drivers to become inattentive to the road in front of them, per the study. This is problematic, as this technology is often unable to sense objects around a vehicle.
- Collision warning systems: Nearly half of the study’s participants did not realize that collision warning systems do not stop vehicles on their own.
- Blind-spot detection: 80 percent of participants falsely believed that blind-spot monitoring systems can fully detect approaching objects.
- Emergency braking mechanisms: Many drivers believe that emergency braking systems act without human intervention. While such technology does exist, it is not installed on every vehicle – even many new ones.
Overall, the AAA Foundation’s study highlights a need for better driver education. Advanced safety systems serve a valuable purpose, but they do have weaknesses. For Florida drivers, these misconceptions can be deadly should they lead to an accident.
How can Florida motorists be better informed?
Drivers can act to more fully understand their cars. When buying a new car, you should ask for a full demonstration of the vehicle’s safety features. There are also numerous resources online to learn more about a car’s functionalities.
Advanced safety technology has the power to keep Florida roads safer. With the rise of distracted driving, these features may become increasingly valuable. To get the most out of these systems, however, it’s imperative for drivers to fully grasp their limitations.
Individuals who have been in accidents due to another motorist’s overreliance on this technology may have legal options. As with most instances of car accidents, it’s often beneficial to consult with an attorney in such a situation.