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AAA Links an Overreliance on Driver-Assist Tech With Distracted Driving

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As useful as advanced safety systems are for increasing driver awareness, sometimes they can do just the opposite. In fact, a new AAA study indicates a connection between long-term use of advanced driver-assist technologies and distracted driving behaviors.


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Findings from the study

Per the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, drivers who regularly used their vehicle’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) were nearly two times more likely to drive distracted while using the systems compared to when they drove without the systems. The distracted-driving tendencies participants evidenced included adjusting the radio settings, as well as texting.

This overreliance on ADAS seems to be a gradual process rather than something that happens overnight. The Virginia Tech researchers who collaborated on the study believe that there are different phases drivers experience when they start using their vehicle’s safety technologies. In the early phase of using a new system, it’s common for users to distrust the system and remain fully engaged while driving. Eventually, the driver starts taking the tech for granted and turning their attention to non-driving functions like texting or making a phone call.

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Executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Dr. David Yang, expressed how some drivers grew complacent behind the wheel when their auto had built-in ADAS. He cautions drivers to avoid depending too much on these technologies. “Over-reliance on these systems can put drivers and others in dangerous conditions during critical moments.”

Dr. William Van Tassel, AAA manager of driver training programs, voiced the importance of remaining completely focused while behind the wheel. “Advanced driver assistance technologies have a lot to offer in terms of comfort and safety, but they should never replace an attentive and engaged driver.”


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