CBS News reports AAA released new research that “finds that people who regularly use advanced driver-assistance technology are far more likely to be distracted behind the wheel.” Similarly, the NTSB “warns some drivers rely” on driver-assistance systems “too much.” With more than nine in 10 new vehicles coming equipped with at least one driver-assistance safety features, AAA research William Horry says, “These technologies can actually really make it seem as though the vehicle has got these different aspects of driving covered, and so, that can lull you into this false sense of security.”
MarketWatch reports the “people who regularly use advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are almost twice as likely to engage in distracted driving – such as taking their eyes off of the road to text, talk to passengers and fiddle with the radio – compared to when they were not using these semi-autonomous systems.” AAA conducted the study with Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety Executive Director Dr. David Yang said in a statement, “This new research suggests that as drivers gain more experience using ADAS technology, they could develop complacency while behind the wheel. Over-reliance on these systems can put drivers and others in dangerous conditions during critical moments.” The story also mentions that NHTSA data show about 3,166 people died in 2017 in incidents where distracted driving was a factor.
From the news release of the American Association for Justice.
