Partial Autonomous Features: Convenience vs Safety
The presence of driver-assist technologies in cars has raised the question of whether these features actually help prevent accidents. To answer this, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted an analysis of collision data, and the results indicate that such features may not significantly reduce collisions.
The study focused on data from Nissan and BMW vehicles equipped with partial autonomous driving features from 2013 to 2022. Nissan’s ProPilot and BMW’s Driving Assistant Plus were evaluated. Interestingly, the analysis found that features like lane departure and lane centering did not lead to a statistically significant reduction in collisions.
It is important to note that cars equipped with these features also tend to have forward automatic emergency braking (AEB). The IIHS categorizes AEB as a crash avoidance feature, not as a partial autonomous feature. In contrast to the lack of impact seen with lane departure and lane centering, the study revealed that cars equipped with AEB experienced a notable reduction in insurance liability claims.
For example, Nissan Rogues from 2017-19 equipped with forward collision warnings saw a 49% lower rate of rear-ending crashes. The inclusion of AEB and adaptive cruise control (ACC) lowered the rate even further, to 54%. This pattern continued across Nissan vehicles, which showed an 8% drop in liability claims when equipped with AEB. Similarly, BMW and Mini vehicles from 2013-17 experienced a 13% lower rate of liability claims when equipped with AEB.
Jessica Cicchino, the senior vice president for research at IIHS, emphasized that there is no clear evidence that partial automation actually prevents crashes. She warned against considering these features as safety measures and urged both users and regulators not to confuse them as such. In fact, the IIHS cautions that relying on these features could create a false sense of security and induce driver boredom, resulting in drivers tuning out.
IIHS President David Harkey even suggests that partial autonomous features should be viewed as conveniences, akin to power windows or heated seats, rather than as essential safety features. This perspective highlights the need for drivers to remain attentive and engaged behind the wheel, regardless of the presence of driver-assist technologies.
In conclusion, while driver-assist technologies may offer convenience and enhanced driving experiences, their impact on accident prevention remains inconclusive. By drawing insights from collision data, the IIHS provides valuable guidance to drivers and regulators alike, emphasizing the importance of responsible and attentive driving as the primary means of ensuring safety on the road.
