Analysis of Collision Data on Driver-Assist Technologies
Now that cars with driver-assist technologies have been on the road for several years, it’s possible to gather crash data to see if such features actually help prevent accidents. According to analysis of collision data by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the answer is not really. The study looked at data collected by the Highway Loss Data Institute of Nissan and BMW vehicles from 2013 to 2022. Both brands have a significant number of vehicles equipped with partial autonomous driving features — ProPilot for Nissan and Driving Assistant Plus for BMW. The IIHS found that the presence of such features like lane departure and lane centering did not result in a statistically significant reduction in collisions.
Impact of Forward Automatic Emergency Braking
Cars equipped with those features tended to also have forward automatic emergency braking. The IIHS classifies AEB as a crash avoidance feature, not a partial autonomous feature. By contrast, the study revealed that cars equipped with AEB saw a notable reduction in insurance liability claims, which are claims where other drivers’ property is damaged. For example, 2017-19 Nissan Rogues equipped with forward collision warnings saw a 49% lower rate of rear-ending crashes. If the Rogue was equipped with AEB and ACC as well, the rate dropped by 54%. More broadly speaking, Nissans equipped with AEB saw an 8% drop in liability claims, while 2013-17 BMW and Mini vehicles equipped with AEB saw a 13% lower rate. The data didn’t allow for IIHS to isolate BMW and Mini rear-ender crashes.
Cautions Against Misunderstanding Partial Automation
“With no clear evidence that partial automation is preventing crashes, users and regulators alike should not confuse it for a safety feature,” warned Jessica Cicchino, senior vice president for research at IIHS. In fact, the IIHS cautions that such features could “encourage a false sense of security and induce boredom, causing drivers to tune out.” As a result, IIHS president David Harkey said that partial autonomous features should be thought of as a convenience like power windows or heated seats, not as safety features.
Reevaluation of Partial Autonomous Features
The study implies that the role of driver-assist technologies in preventing accidents may not be as effective as previously believed. While features like lane departure warning and lane centering did not show a significant reduction in collisions, forward automatic emergency braking demonstrated a positive impact on reducing liability claims. This challenges the perception that partial autonomous driving features can replace the need for driver attentiveness and caution on the road. As automakers continue to develop and integrate advanced technologies into vehicles, it is essential for consumers, regulators, and manufacturers to reassess the intended benefits and potential drawbacks of such features.
Future Considerations for Driver-Assist Technologies
Moving forward, it is important for car buyers to be informed about the capabilities and limitations of driver-assist technologies. While these features may provide convenience and assist in certain driving scenarios, they should not be solely relied upon to prevent accidents. Additionally, regulators and policymakers should consider the findings of this study when establishing safety standards and guidelines for autonomous features in vehicles. By promoting education and awareness about the true functions of these technologies, the automotive industry can work towards enhancing road safety and preventing collisions effectively.