Drivers warned over rule changes as motorists 'switch off' life saving car features
by James Rodger, Sonia Sharma · ChronicleLiveHighway Code changes could be on the way for drivers as many motorists are believed to be "switching off" life-saving technology in their vehicles.
Experts say around 33% of drivers are switching off assistance aids. Only a quarter of motorists regularly use features such as collision warnings and cruise control, despite their potential to prevent accidents.
The IAM RoadSmart 2024 Road Safety Report, based on a survey of more than 2,000 drivers, warns speed warnings on dashboards emerged as the most frequently enabled aid, with 28% of drivers regularly using this feature. Cruise control follows closely behind at 27% regular usage. But this feature also has the highest proportion of people never using it (34%) despite their vehicles having this system, while just 23% of drivers regularly use collision warning assistance, reports BirminghamLive.
Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and standards, said: "It's ironic that so many rely on technology on a day-to-day basis, yet within their vehicles, drivers at best seem ambivalent about using technology systems that could save their lives if these were engaged. Part of the issue is likely to be a lack of understanding of how each of these systems can benefit them.
"Many might switch off certain systems because the alarm might be irritating or because they don’t like the feel of the steering wheel autocorrecting to keep the vehicle in a lane. Manufacturers are consistently improving the technology, but this will take time.
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"There’s potentially an exercise for both individuals and fleet managers to ensure drivers and colleagues learn more about these systems, as well as advisories being added into the next round of Highway Code changes. While we need more consumer awareness of how these aids work, it’s important to remember that driver assistance systems should always compliment safe driving rather than be a replacement for it."
Drivers aged 17-34 are around twice as likely to use driver assistance systems compared to someone aged 70 or over, while their use is also higher among male drivers. Those travelling at least 10,000 miles or more a year are also far more likely to be engaged with this technology, primarily because they may use it for work journeys.
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