Expert Warns Drivers Against Disabling Car Safety Features
A prominent vehicle safety advocate is cautioning motorists to reconsider deactivating a specific in-car function, citing a potential increase in accident likelihood. Modern vehicles are equipped with numerous safety technologies, including advanced driver assistance systems that utilize sensors and radar to enhance the safety of drivers and passengers.
Rising Trend of Feature Deactivation Concerns Safety Advocates
Nicholas Lyes, Director of Policy and Standards at IAM RoadSmart, a road safety organization, has expressed concern over the growing trend of drivers disabling these safety systems. He stated, “It is paradoxical that while people heavily rely on technology in their daily lives, they appear hesitant or indifferent towards utilizing in-vehicle technology designed to potentially save lives. A significant factor may be a lack of comprehension regarding the advantages of these systems. Some individuals might deactivate certain features due to perceived annoyances from alerts or discomfort with the steering wheel’s corrective actions to maintain lane position.”
Mandatory Safety Features and Driver Behavior
While fully autonomous vehicles are not yet widely available, new cars sold in the UK are mandated to include several driver assistance features, such as lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking.
Despite their intended purpose of accident prevention, an IAM RoadSmart study involving over 2,000 drivers revealed that 33% are choosing to switch off these features.
Current UK legislation permits drivers to disable these safety systems, which automatically reactivate upon restarting the vehicle’s engine. However, some safety advocates are pushing for these systems to remain active at all times to ensure continuous driver protection.
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Call for Increased Awareness and System Optimization
To improve driver acceptance of assistance technologies, Mr. Lyes emphasized the need for enhanced public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives focusing on each feature. He also stressed the importance of rigorous testing and development by vehicle manufacturers.
He further suggested, “There is an opportunity for individuals and fleet managers to prioritize driver education regarding these systems. Furthermore, incorporating relevant guidance into future revisions of the Highway Code should be considered.”
“It is crucial to boost consumer understanding of how these aids function. However, it’s vital to remember that driver assistance systems are intended to support safe driving practices, not substitute them entirely.”
Generational and Usage Trends in Feature Adoption
Conversely, despite a considerable proportion of drivers turning off assistance technology, many motorists are strong proponents of these modern features.
IAM RoadSmart’s survey indicated that younger drivers, aged 17 to 34, are approximately twice as likely to utilize driver assistance features.
The study also found that drivers with higher mileage, exceeding 10,000 miles annually, are more inclined to use the technology, often due to frequent long-distance journeys for work purposes.