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Safety systems in newer vehicles may cause distractions

On Behalf of | Jan 2, 2020 | Auto Accident Injuries |

California residents may be interested in learning about a study showing that some of the systems that are designed to make cars safer are actually leading to distracted driving and potentially putting drivers in danger. Popular features like adaptive cruise control may cause drivers to drop their guard while driving.

These technologies were designed to help make people safer. However, they can cause some drivers to put too much trust in the system according to studies released by the AAA Foundation. Part of the problem may stem from the fact that drivers do not thoroughly understand automation systems. They may put too much faith in the systems, believing that the technology can take the place of a human driver.

The reality is that the systems are designed to be support systems. However, drivers still have the responsibility to be attentive and alert. Adaptive cruise control, for example, is designed to help keep drivers a safe distance away from other vehicles on the road. Lane-keeping assistance gently nudges the vehicle one way or another to help the driver stay in their lane when the car starts to drift. However, both systems still need the human behind the wheel to keep their eyes open and to stay focused on driving safely.

This doesn’t mean that the systems themselves are dangerous. It may imply a need on the part of the auto industry to educate drivers about the limitations of their systems, helping them to see that these systems cannot make sophisticated decisions.

If a driver were to trust too much in an automated system, they may cause an accident. The victim of that accident may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses and other damages. Costa Mesa auto accident injury lawyers may work with their clients to get them the compensation they are due.

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