Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are technological features that enable cars to operate with safety in mind. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety predicts that properly installed and used ADAS technologies can prevent up to 2.7 million crashes yearly.
But even if cars are becoming safer and smarter than ever, they still have limitations. Thus, Texas drivers must be wary not to be complacent. Mindlessly relying on these innovations may do more harm than good.
Overreliance behind the wheel can be deadly
Blind spot warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking system are just some ADAS examples designed to heighten drivers’ awareness or steer vehicles away from potentially fatal dangers on the road.
Even if ADAS components provide added protection, they can still be unpredictable. If drivers do not stay engaged or quickly become distracted, they may find themselves:
- Too alarmed by audible beeps or sounds
- Unable to control unintentional and aggressive movements
- Trapped in complicated situations due to the systems’ sensitivity
These problematic interactions between drivers and their cars’ safety features show that drivers must always command their vehicles and not the other way around.
The future of car safety is in everyone’s hands
As car manufacturing continues evolving, drivers must use modern tools with utmost caution. It will be wise to learn how their vehicles’ safety features can make the roads safer. But if technology fails or human error persists, tragedies can still strike. When they do, drivers and passengers can depend on their legal counsel to fight fiercely for a secure future on the road.